One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta combines bold Cajun flavors with a rich, cheesy sauce for a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 1 (13oz) pack Cajun andouille sausage, cut into coins
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 (14.5oz) can chicken broth (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 (10oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ pound or approximately 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet that can fit the pasta and has a lid, cook the sliced sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until browned to your liking.
- Step 2: Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, keeping the sausage grease in the pan.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, sauté the garlic in the leftover sausage grease for about one minute. Then add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with chilies, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning. Stir in the dry pasta, cover with a lid, and simmer on low heat for about 14 minutes until the pasta is cooked.
- Step 4: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked sausage if you can’t find andouille for a similar smoky flavor.
- Add sliced bell peppers or onions when sautéing garlic for extra veggies and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
- Substitute mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy twist.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
PrintOne Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish combining spicy andouille sausage, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich creamy sauce infused with Cajun seasoning. Cooked all in one skillet, it’s an easy and delicious weeknight meal with a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 (13oz) pack cajun andouille sausage, cut into coins
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
Liquids and Seasoning
- 1 (14.5oz) can chicken broth (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 (10oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning
Carbohydrates and Cheese
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ pound or approximately 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet (large enough to hold the pasta later and with a lid), cook the sliced cajun andouille sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until browned to your liking.
- Set aside sausage: Remove the browned sausage from the skillet and place it on a paper towel lined plate to drain excess grease. Do not discard the sausage grease remaining in the pan as it adds flavor.
- Sauté garlic and add liquids: In the same skillet with the sausage grease, sauté the chopped garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth, Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies, and heavy cream. Stir in the cajun seasoning.
- Add pasta and simmer: Add the dry bowtie pasta to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer everything on LOW heat for about 14 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
- Combine sausage and cheese: Once the pasta is tender, stir the cooked sausage back into the skillet. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese and toss gently until the cheese melts and the dish is creamy and well combined. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.
- Use a heavy skillet with a lid to ensure even cooking of pasta in the sauce.
- You can substitute smoked sausage if andouille is unavailable.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the pasta may absorb more liquid and thicken.
Keywords: One pot pasta, Cajun sausage pasta, creamy pasta, andouille sausage recipe, easy pasta dinner, spicy sausage pasta
