This Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and comforting one-pot dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. It brings together smoky sausage, aromatic vegetables, bold Cajun spices, and a luscious creamy cheese sauce—all in under 30 minutes. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to meal for anyone craving a quick and hearty dinner. Whether you're serving it up for a family of four or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe offers the perfect balance of spice, richness, and comfort.
12 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa)
8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes for garnish
Prepare Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.
Cook Sausage: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Seasoning and Flour: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and flour over the vegetables. Stir to coat evenly.
Add Liquids and Pasta: Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
Make Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or red pepper flakes if desired.
This Cajun Sausage Pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. For drinks, consider iced tea, white wine, or a cold beer. Round off the meal with a light dessert such as lemon sorbet or fresh berries for a refreshing finish.
Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: 20–25g (depending on sausage and cheese used)
Carbohydrates: 40–50g (depending on pasta type)
Fat: 30–35g (varies based on cream and cheese)