Creamy Cajun sausage pasta is a bold, flavorful dish I love making when I want something quick, comforting, and packed with spicy, smoky goodness. Everything comes together in one pot—from the seared sausage to the rich Cajun cream sauce—making cleanup as easy as the cooking. The pasta soaks up all those delicious flavors, and the creamy finish brings it all together in the most satisfying way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it checks every box: it’s fast, filling, flavorful, and made in one pot. The Cajun seasoning gives the dish a warm, smoky kick, and the sausage adds that meaty, savory bite. The cream balances the spice, and the pasta cooks right in the same pan, soaking up all the flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and it always hits the spot. Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Smoked sausage (sliced; andouille or kielbasa work well)
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Diced tomatoes (canned, drained)
Olive oil or butter
Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Fresh parsley (optional, for serving)
Salt and black pepper

Directions

I heat a bit of oil or butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
I add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. I remove the sausage and set it aside.
In the same pot, I sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and Cajun seasoning.
I add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cream to the pot. I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer.
I stir frequently and cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened—usually about 12–15 minutes.
I return the sausage to the pot, stir everything together, and cook for another minute or two to heat through.
I taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
I garnish with grated parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–5 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I add spinach or chopped kale at the end for a green boost.
I swap sausage for chicken, shrimp, or a plant-based sausage for variety.
I stir in a spoonful of cream cheese for extra richness.
I use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
I toss in red bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and color.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it in a skillet or microwave.

This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, which can separate after thawing, so I keep it fresh for best results. Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, I often use fully cooked smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa. I just brown it in the pan first for extra flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini because they hold the sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a kick, but I control the heat by adjusting the Cajun seasoning or using a mild sausage. For more spice, I add cayenne or hot sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

What if the sauce gets too thick?

I add a splash of broth, cream, or even a little milk to thin it out until it reaches the right consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun sausage pasta is one of my favorite one-pot meals—rich, bold, and full of comforting flavor. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a perfect go-to when I want something hearty and fast. Whether I’m feeding the family or just cooking for myself, this dish always delivers a deliciously satisfying bite.