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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with penne, smoked sausage, tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a white bowl

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Emily Wilson
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a rich, comforting 30 minute dinner made in a single pan. Smoked sausage, tender pasta, tomatoes, cream, and melted cheese come together for an easy weeknight meal that is family friendly, budget conscious, and perfect for leftovers.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 13 ounces Smoked sausage, sliced into coins Use turkey smoked sausage for a lighter option
  • 8 ounces Dry pasta such as bowtie or penne
  • 2 cups Chicken broth
  • 10 ounces Diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 0.5 cup Heavy cream Substitute half and half for lighter version
  • 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste

Optional Add Ins

  • 0.5 cup Diced onion
  • 0.5 cup Chopped bell pepper
  • 1 cup Broccoli florets

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside, leaving a small amount of grease for flavor.
  • Add garlic, and if using, diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  • Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juices, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine.
  • Stir in dry pasta, making sure most of it is submerged in liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Once pasta is tender and sauce has thickened, return sausage to the skillet. Turn off heat and gradually stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Notes

For a lighter version, use smoked turkey sausage and reduce the cheese slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick when reheating, stir in a splash of milk or broth. This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be portioned for easy lunch meal prep.
Nutrition Facts:
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
  • Sodium: 980 mg
  • Potassium: 420 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Vitamin A: 850 IU
  • Vitamin C: 12 mg
  • Calcium: 320 mg
  • Iron: 3 mg