Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal made in just one pot. It’s rich, spicy, and cheesy with smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun kick in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. Plus, everything simmers in one pan, letting the pasta soak up all the flavor from the sausage and creamy Cajun sauce.

This recipe brings together smoky kielbasa or andouille sausage, garlic, bell peppers, and pasta in a smooth, lightly spiced sauce made from cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan. You’ll love how it balances heat, richness, and texture without requiring a sink full of dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pot = easy cleanup
Full of creamy, smoky, and spicy flavors
Ready in under 30 minutes
Budget-friendly and filling
Great for weeknights or casual dinners
Easily customizable with shrimp or chicken

Ingredients

Here’s a clear breakdown of everything you’ll need to make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta:

For the Pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium bell pepper (any color), sliced thin
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
3½ cups low sodium chicken broth
¾ cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (Optional)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Red pepper flakes, to taste

How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced sausage in a single layer. Let it sear for 2–3 minutes on one side without moving, then stir and continue cooking until browned all over, about 5–6 minutes total. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan with the rendered sausage fat, reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Pasta

Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the vegetables and stir to coat. Return the sausage to the pan. Add the uncooked pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything well to combine and make sure the pasta is mostly submerged.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let everything simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes more, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and, if desired, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve hot, straight from the pan.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the pan: Sear the sausage in batches if needed so it browns properly.
Overcooking the pasta: Stir occasionally and keep an eye near the end to avoid mushy noodles.
Using too much Cajun seasoning: Some blends are saltier or spicier than others—start with less and adjust after.
Skipping the cream or cheese: These round out the dish and make the sauce rich and cohesive.
Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt as well as freshly grated Parmesan.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add a bit more cheese to thicken if using milk.

What’s the best sausage for this?
Andouille gives you a smoky, spicy flavor. Kielbasa is milder and kid-friendly.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It reheats well. Just add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a medium Cajun kick. Adjust with your seasoning or skip red pepper flakes if sensitive to heat.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Yields about 4 servings

Calories: 650
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 950mg
Sugar: 4g

Note: Values will vary depending on sausage, cream, and cheese brand.

What to Serve with Cajun Sausage Pasta

Garlic bread or toasted baguette
Simple green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli
Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce on the side

Notes

Vegetables: Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
Cream Substitute: You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Storage Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: Not ideal, as the cream sauce may split when thawed.

Final Bites

This creamy Cajun sausage pasta brings bold flavors, comfort, and convenience together in one pot. With smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy Cajun cream sauce, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is simple enough for any weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want something cozy and satisfying, this dish delivers every time. The balance of spice and creaminess makes it both exciting and comforting.