One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Delight

November 19, 2025January 10, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta

– 1 lb (450g) spicy sausage, sliced into coin-sized pieces

– 1 cup heavy cream

Flavor Enhancers

– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Basic Seasoning

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This dish shines with its simple yet bold flavors. The penne pasta serves as a hearty base. The spicy sausage adds warmth and depth. Heavy cream brings richness, making every bite creamy and delightful.

Cajun seasoning is a key player. It packs a punch with spices and herbs. Diced tomatoes add sweetness and acidity. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a velvety sauce.

For basic seasoning, olive oil is crucial for sautéing. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and freshness.

Gather these ingredients for a quick and tasty meal. Each one plays a role in making this dish special. You will enjoy every step of cooking and every mouthful of this meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Sausage

– Browning the Sausage: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of sliced spicy sausage. Cook the sausage for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Stir often to ensure even cooking.

– Setting Aside Cooked Sausage: Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the pot. Place it on a plate and set it aside for later. This step helps keep the sausage juicy for the final dish.

Sautéing Vegetables

– Cooking Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper: In the same pot, add 1 small diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 diced bell pepper. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir often until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Creating the Sauce

– Adding Tomatoes and Broth: Next, stir in one can of diced tomatoes, including the juices. Add 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.

– Incorporating Cajun Seasoning: Once boiling, add 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. This will give your dish that signature spicy flavor. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Cooking the Pasta

– Adding Penne to the Boiling Sauce: After the sauce boils, add 12 ounces of penne pasta to the pot. Make sure the pasta is well submerged in the sauce.

– Simmering Until Al Dente: Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it.

Final Assembly

– Stirring in Heavy Cream and Sausage: After the pasta is done, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the cooked sausage. Cook everything together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.

– Melting Cheese for Creamy Texture: Finally, remove the pot from the heat. Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

Ensuring Al Dente Pasta

To get the best pasta, cook it until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Follow the cooking time on the package, but check a minute early. Taste a piece to see if it’s just right!

Adjusting Consistency with Cream

You can change the creaminess of your dish. Add more heavy cream for a richer sauce. If it gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. This will make it smooth and creamy.

Flavor Enhancements

Use of Additional Spices

Feel free to add more spices to boost flavor. A dash of paprika or cayenne pepper can add depth. Experiment to find what you like best.

Customizing Heat Level

If you want more heat, pick a spicier sausage or add red pepper flakes. For less heat, use mild sausage or skip the extra spices. Adjust to your family’s taste.

Presentation Suggestions

Serving in Deep Bowls

Serve your pasta in deep bowls. This creates a cozy feel and allows for easy eating. It also keeps the sauce in the bowl.

Garnishing with Cheese and Parsley

Top each serving with more cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. This adds color and makes the dish look fancy. It also gives a fresh taste with each bite.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Using Different Types of Sausage

You can swap the spicy sausage for other types. Try chicken sausage for a lighter taste. Or use Italian sausage for a milder flavor. Each type brings its unique twist to the dish. You can also use smoked sausage for an added depth.

Alternatives to Penne Pasta

Penne pasta is great, but you can use other shapes. Fusilli or farfalle work well too. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. The key is to pick a pasta that holds sauce well.

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free pasta. There are many brands available that taste great. Just check the cooking time, as it may vary from regular pasta. This way, everyone can enjoy this dish without worry.

Vegan Version

To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based sausage. You can also substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Don’t forget to choose a vegan cheese for that creamy finish. This version is both tasty and kind to the planet.

Extra Add-Ins

Vegetables to Enhance Nutrition

Add more veggies for extra nutrition. Spinach and kale can mix in nicely. You could also toss in some peas or mushrooms for added flavor. These additions not only boost health but also add color and texture.

Cheese Variations for Flavor

While cheddar cheese is classic, you can mix it up. Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Adding cream cheese can also make it extra rich and creamy. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your creamy Cajun sausage pasta fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. This helps prevent any odors from mixing. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before sealing it up. This cooling step reduces moisture, which helps avoid sogginess.

– Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

– Label the container with the date to track freshness.

For the best storage containers, I recommend glass or BPA-free plastic. These options are safe and easy to clean. They also allow you to see what’s inside, making it easier to grab a quick meal.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze creamy pasta for later enjoyment. To do this, let it cool completely before packing it up. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to keep it secure.

– Freeze for up to 2 months for the best flavor and texture.

When you are ready to eat, take the pasta out of the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.

For reheating, place the pasta in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir often until hot. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to keep moisture in.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. To prepare it in advance, follow these steps:

– Cook the pasta but stop just before it is fully done. This keeps it firm.

– Save the sausage and cream to add later.

– Store everything in a sealed container in the fridge.

– When ready to eat, heat it up and add the cream and sausage.

This way, your dish stays fresh and tasty.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want to swap heavy cream, here are some great options:

– Coconut milk: This gives a rich flavor and is dairy-free.

– Cashew cream: Blend soaked cashews with water for a creamy texture.

– Greek yogurt: Use plain yogurt for a tangy taste and less fat.

Each option will change the flavor a bit but still keeps it creamy.

How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

You can change the heat level easily:

– To reduce heat: Use mild sausage or cut back on Cajun seasoning.

– To add heat: Add more Cajun seasoning or some red pepper flakes.

Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This creamy Cajun sausage pasta goes well with many sides:

– Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.

– Green salad: A simple salad adds freshness.

– Roasted vegetables: Try broccoli or zucchini for extra color.

These sides make your meal complete and delicious.

This blog post shared a tasty creamy pasta recipe featuring penne, spicy sausage, and heavy cream. We explored how to enhance flavors with Cajun spices, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. You learned the right steps to prepare, cook, and assemble this dish. Remember, you can customize ingredients and adjust spiciness. Keep leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them later. Cooking should be fun and creative. Try this recipe to impress yourself and others. Happy cookin