One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This delicious One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the weeknight comfort food that solves those busy evenings when everyone wants something hearty yet bold. It hits all the high notes with smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and punchy Cajun flavors in every bite. Cleaning up is easy with just one pot to wash—and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Quick, satisfying, and full of personality, this pasta has become my go-to for family meals when I want something both cozy and exciting.

The first time I whipped this up, it was on a hectic evening after a long workday. My family devoured it and gave rave reviews, begging me to make it again soon. Now it is one of our most requested weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage sliced into rounds: This is the backbone of the recipe Look for a deeply smoked variety for more flavor
• Farfalle pasta: A fun bowtie shape that grabs onto the creamy sauce Choose a sturdy pasta that holds its texture
• Olive oil: For browning and rich depth Go for extra virgin for the best flavor
• Onion finely diced: Builds aromatic sweetness Choose a firm onion with papery skin
• Garlic minced: Gives the sauce its signature kick Use fresh cloves and mince finely for best results
• Canned diced tomatoes: Provides tangy acidity and body Check for a brand with rich tomato taste
• Chicken broth low sodium: Allows control over salt Use a quality broth that smells clean and savory
• Heavy cream: Makes everything rich and silky Always use real heavy cream for the creamiest result
• Shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack blend: Adds gooey meltiness Freshly shredded melts best
• Cajun seasoning: The key to all the bold flavors Use your favorite blend and taste as you go for heat
• Paprika: For smokiness and color Try Spanish smoked paprika if you love extra depth
• Salt and pepper for seasoning: Adjust to taste using fresh cracked black pepper
• Fresh parsley or green onion: For garnish and a burst of color and freshness Pick bright leafy parsley or snappy green onions

Optional

• Diced bell peppers for crunch and sweetness: Choose fresh colorful peppers
• Red pepper flakes for more heat: Add with caution to taste
• Grated Parmesan for a nutty finish: Finely grate for easy melting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add the sliced sausage Sauté until browned on both sides which will take about four to five minutes Browning the sausage releases its smoky and savory flavors into the base of the dish

Sauté the Aromatics:

Remove the sausage and set aside In the same pot add the diced onion and cook for two to three minutes until soft and beginning to turn translucent Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just thirty seconds Garlic can burn quickly so watch closely

Build the Sauce and Pasta Base:

Return the browned sausage to the pot followed by the farfalle pasta canned diced tomatoes with all their juice chicken broth Cajun seasoning paprika salt and pepper Mix everything thoroughly making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid

Simmer the Pasta:

Bring the pot to a gentle boil then reduce the heat to a simmer Cover with a lid and cook for twelve to fourteen minutes stirring every few minutes This helps the pasta cook evenly and soak up all the Cajun flavors The pasta should be tender but not mushy

Make it Creamy:

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream Mix until fully combined with the sauce which should look creamy and silky

Finish with Cheese:

Add the shredded cheese and stir until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy This is when the sauce thickens and becomes rich

Adjust and Serve:

Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary Let the pot simmer uncovered for another two to three minutes so the sauce thickens to your liking

Garnish and Present:

Serve immediately with fresh parsley or sliced green onions and extra cheese if desired This adds color and freshness right before serving

Pin

My favorite part of this recipe is the way the Cajun seasoning perfumes the whole kitchen Even when it is just me cooking late at night the spicy aroma brings back memories of noisy family dinners around the big table laughing as we passed the breadbasket

Storage Tips

This pasta holds up well for up to four days in the fridge Store in a tightly sealed container When reheating add a small splash of chicken broth or cream and stir to return its silky texture Avoid freezing since the cream sauce may break and turn grainy

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have farfalle try penne or rotini Both shapes hold the sauce well Turkey sausage or plantbased sausage also work for a lighter version For cheese you can sub in mozzarella for extra melt or a spicier pepper jack for more kick

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a simple crisp salad and garlic bread to round out the meal It is also perfect for potlucks and makes a showstopper comfort food dinner for guests Set out extra hot sauce or Parmesan so everyone can personalize their plate

Pin

Cajun Roots at Home

Cajun cuisine brings together French Canadian traditions with Southern influences explaining why this dish is both bold and comforting The mix of sausage creamy sauce and herbs makes it irresistible It is my nod to classic Louisiana kitchen magic with a homey twist

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well in place of bowtie pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed for al dente texture.

→ How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and omit red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust gradually for milder flavor.

→ Can I substitute chicken for the sausage?

Absolutely! Cook diced chicken pieces until browned, then continue with the recipe as directed for a lighter alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese shreds to keep the sauce creamy and flavorful.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

A crisp green salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly to balance the rich and creamy pasta.