Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion diced; 1 medium red bell pepper diced; 12 ounces andouille sausage sliced into 1/4-inch rounds; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 pound rigatoni or penne; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes undrained; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 21 reviews

If you’re in the mood for something flavorful, comforting, and seriously simple, you’re going to love this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those gems I keep coming back to when I want dinner on the table without juggling a million pots and pans. Creamy, spicy, and packed with sausage, it’s got all the right notes that make weeknight dinners feel like a cozy celebration. Stick with me, and I’ll show you exactly how to nail it every time!

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Why This Recipe Works

One-Pot Wonder: You only use one pan, so cleanup is a breeze and flavors meld beautifully.
Bold Cajun Flavors: The spicy and smoky andouille sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce for a balanced kick.
Creamy & Comforting: A luscious sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan keeps each bite indulgently smooth.
Hands-Off Simplicity: Minimal prep and mostly simmering mean you can focus on something else while it cooks.

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, Cajun sausage pasta, creamy Cajun pasta recipe, easy Cajun sausage dinner, one pot pasta recipes - The image shows a close-up of a large white bowl filled with creamy rigatoni pasta mixed with slices of browned sausage and small pieces of red bell pepper. The sauce is smooth and orange, coating each piece of pasta evenly. The dish is sprinkled with green herbs and black pepper, adding specks of color on top. A black serving spoon with a silver handle scoops some pasta from the bowl, holding a few rigatoni pieces, sausage slices, and red pepper in the center. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe blends hearty sausage, crisp veggies, and a velvety sauce that comes together thanks to some pantry staples. Choosing quality sausage and fresh produce really elevates the dish, while simple seasonings lock in that signature Cajun vibe.

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, Cajun sausage pasta, creamy Cajun pasta recipe, easy Cajun sausage dinner, one pot pasta recipes - Flat lay of a small dish of golden olive oil, one medium yellow onion and one medium red bell pepper both diced with vibrant colors, a pile of sliced andouille sausage rounds about a dozen pieces, a small heap of minced garlic, a wooden spoonful of reddish Cajun seasoning, a scattering of uncooked rigatoni pasta, two cans of bright diced tomatoes opened with some tomatoes spilling out, a clear cup of creamy heavy cream, a small mound of shredded Parmesan cheese, a few tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and a small bowl of white cornstarch powder, all placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Olive Oil: The base for sautéing, which adds a subtle fruity richness and helps brown the sausage.
Yellow Onion: Brings sweetness and depth once softened.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a mild crunch and a pop of color that brightens the dish.
Andouille Sausage: This smoky, spicy sausage is the heart of the recipe and delivers authentic Cajun flavor.
Minced Garlic: For that fragrant aroma that perks up everything.
Cajun Seasoning: The secret spice blend that brings warmth, heat, and complexity.
Rigatoni or Penne: Pasta shapes that hold onto the sauce perfectly.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and savory depth to cook pasta right in the pot.
Diced Tomatoes: Contributes acidity and freshness to balance the creaminess.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce without making it gloopy.
Heavy Cream: Creates that irresistibly silky sauce texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty notes and thickens the sauce as it melts.
Fresh Parsley: Optional but lovely for a burst of color and freshness at the end.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love making this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe my own — swapping in veggies or adjusting spice levels keeps it fresh every time. Don’t be shy about boosting the heat or adding some extra cheese if that’s what you crave!

Spice it up: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or extra Cajun seasoning if I’m in a bold mood.
Veggie boost: Adding mushrooms or zucchini works wonderfully and sneaks in some extra nutrition.
Dairy swap: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich.
Protein twists: Tried smoked turkey sausage before — still fantastic if you want something different.

Step-by-Step: How I Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat — this gives you plenty of room to work. Then add your andouille sausage slices. Stir them occasionally and cook until they’re beautifully browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. That caramelization is key because it brings out the sausage’s smoky flavor and adds depth to the whole dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, toss in the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Cook them together with the sausage for another 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and start releasing their sweetness. This step builds the flavor foundation. If you want your veggies a bit crisper, cook a little less, but I like them tender for this recipe.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Cajun Seasoning

Now it’s time for the garlic and Cajun seasoning. Stir these in, letting them cook for about a minute — just enough to toast the spices and release the garlic’s aroma without burning it. I tend to watch closely here because garlic can go from fragrant to bitter fast!

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and add your rigatoni or penne right on top. Use your spoon to gently press the pasta down under the liquid so it cooks evenly. This is the magic moment where your one-pot meal really starts coming together. Increase heat to bring it all to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking and to evenly cook those noodles through. You’re aiming for tender but still with a bit of bite—perfect al dente. Don’t rush it here, but don’t overcook either or it’ll mush.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

When the pasta’s just right, scoop out about half a cup of the cooking liquid into a bowl. Whisk in your cornstarch until completely dissolved — this slurry is going to thicken the sauce without clumps. Pour it all back into the pot and stir well to combine. You’ll notice the sauce start to get creamy and luxurious.

Step 7: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Finally, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts into that amazing creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — sometimes a pinch of salt or extra cheese makes it pop. Then, remove from heat.

Garnish with some fresh parsley for a fresh, herbaceous touch and serve while it’s perfectly warm.

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Tips from My Kitchen

Use Quality Sausage: I’ve found that going for authentic andouille sausage, even from the deli counter, really amps up the flavor.
Don’t Skip Pressing Pasta: Pressing the pasta into the liquid ensures it cooks evenly underwater rather than drying out on top.
Toast the Spices Gently: Garlic and Cajun seasoning toast best on medium heat—too hot can burn and add bitterness.
Keep an Eye on the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce looks too thick after adding cornstarch, add a splash more broth or cream to loosen it a bit.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish this pasta with fresh chopped parsley because it brightens every bite and adds a lovely green contrast. Sometimes I also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or even a pinch of smoked paprika to reinforce that Cajun vibe. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can add a surprising pop of brightness if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty, so I like pairing it with something light and crisp like a simple green salad with vinaigrette or steamed broccoli. A crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also work well if you want to mop up every last drop of that sauce. Whenever I want a boost of freshness, a quick cucumber and tomato salad never fails.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I’ve served this creamy Cajun sausage pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with a sprig of parsley and a little shredded cheese on top. You could also bake it with a breadcrumb topping for a gratin-style finish that adds a playful crunchy texture. It’s surprisingly versatile depending on the occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe keep really well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. I usually cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the creamy texture and prevent it from getting too thick or drying out.

Freezing

I’ve frozen portions a couple of times by sealing it tightly in freezer-safe containers. When thawed slowly overnight in the fridge, it reheats well, although cream-based sauces can sometimes separate a bit, so stirring it well when reheating helps bring it back together.

Reheating

For reheating, I prefer warming it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened up. The microwave works in a pinch, but I recommend stirring halfway through to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! While andouille sausage is classic for the Cajun flavor, you can swap in Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or even chorizo. Just adjust the seasoning to taste since some sausages are spicier or more seasoned.
Is there a vegetarian version of this one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta recipe?

Yes, you can skip the sausage and add hearty veggies like mushrooms, eggplant, or plant-based sausage alternatives. Boost the Cajun seasoning and garlic to keep that bold flavor profile intact.
Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free as well. The method stays the same, just watch cooking times as gluten-free pasta can vary.
How spicy is this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning and andouille, but you can always adjust the heat by using less Cajun spice or adding hotter spices if you like it fiery. It’s really flexible to your taste!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! Cook it fully, then cool and store in airtight containers in the fridge. Portion it out for easy reheating during the week. Keep in mind the pasta may soak up the sauce over time, so a little extra cream or broth when reheating helps refresh it.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe is one of my absolute go-tos when I want everything delicious and fuss-free. It’s got that perfect balance of spicy, smoky, and creamy that just feels like a warm hug on a busy night. I’m confident you’ll find it just as satisfying and easy to make as I do—give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a fast favorite in your dinner rotation too!