One Pot Creamy Garlic Cajun Sausage Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 12 oz Cajun sausage, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Recipes

I love making One Pot Creamy Garlic Cajun Sausage Pasta because it combines bold flavors with ease. In just about 30 minutes, I can have a delicious meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate. The creamy sauce and the spicy sausages make every bite a celebration of flavor. Plus, the one-pot method means fewer dishes to wash! It's a weeknight dream come true and a dish my family always looks forward to.

Created by

Jackies

Last updated on 2026-02-16T13:38:18.630Z

One evening, I decided to challenge myself by creating a rich and flavorful pasta dish that could be made in one pot. I chose Cajun sausage for its spice and added a creamy garlic sauce to balance it out. The result was absolutely delicious! Using just one pot made it simple to prepare and clean up afterward.

Through trial and error, I found that sautéing the garlic before adding the pasta really enhances its flavor. I also enjoyed watching the pasta absorb the sauce, becoming perfectly coated and creamy. It was a hit at the dinner table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that satisfies cravings
Bold Cajun spices bring a delightful kick
Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup

      

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Penne pasta is an excellent choice for this creamy dish due to its tubular shape, which allows the sauce to cling beautifully. This means every bite is packed with flavor. I recommend opting for whole wheat or gluten-free penne if you're looking for healthier or gluten-free alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions to ensure perfect texture.

When cooking the pasta in the sauce, be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The starch from the pasta also contributes to a creamier sauce, so don’t skip this step. Once the pasta is cooked, it should be tender but still firm to the bite, known as 'al dente'.

Balancing Flavors with Cajun Spice

Cajun seasoning is the star here—bringing a robust flavor and mild heat that enhances the dish without overpowering it. You can easily adjust the level of spice by adding more or less of the seasoning based on your family's heat tolerance. For those who prefer a milder flavor, consider using smoked paprika as part of the seasoning for a smoky depth without the heat.

If you find yourself short on Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, oregano, and thyme can serve as a suitable substitute, although it will give a different flavor profile. Just remember to taste as you go, especially if you're experimenting with spice blends!

Serving and Storing Your Pasta

This creamy garlic Cajun sausage pasta is best served hot and fresh, garnished with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Pair it with a simple side salad or freshly baked garlic bread to round out the meal. For an extra kick, consider serving it with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauciness and prevent drying out. In my experience, this dish also holds up well in the freezer, making it a great option for meal prep. Just remember to cool it down completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
12 oz Cajun sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Sausage

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced Cajun sausage. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.

Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy your creamy pasta!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat or toss in some fresh spinach right before serving for added nutrition.

Key Techniques for Success

Sautéing the Cajun sausage until it’s beautifully browned adds incredible depth to the dish. The caramelization that occurs during this step creates a flavor base that infuses the entire pasta. Make sure your pot is preheated over medium heat to achieve that golden-brown color, which should take around 5 minutes. It’s an essential step that shouldn't be rushed.

Incorporating the garlic immediately after the sausage ensures that it releases its fragrant oils into the dish without burning. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep a close eye during this step, as you want it fragrant, not charred. Stirring constantly will help achieve that perfect golden hue, enhancing the overall taste of your pasta.

Ingredient Roles in the Dish

Heavy cream is crucial in this recipe since it gives the sauce its luxurious, creamy texture. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that this will slightly alter the sauce's richness and flavor, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Parmesan cheese adds nuttiness and enhances the creaminess of the sauce. For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan, as it melts more smoothly than pre-packaged options. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work in a pinch, although they may impart different flavors.

Personal Touches and Variations

Feel free to customize this pasta by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. If you decide to add fresh greens, mix them in during the last few minutes of cooking to wilt them perfectly without losing their bright color and nutrients. It’s a great way to incorporate extra nutrition into this hearty dish.

For a protein-packed variation, consider swapping out the sausage for grilled chicken or shrimp. Both options complement the creamy sauce well and will adapt to the cooking time—just be sure to cook them fully before adding to the pasta for a streamlined process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to medium spice level due to the Cajun sausage, but you can control it by choosing a milder sausage.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cream or substituting it with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with smoked tofu or your favorite plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.