One‑Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
This flavorful one-pot dinner combines smoky andouille sausage, penne pasta, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. A bold and comforting 30-minute meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Pasta, Main Course
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired, American Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
13 oz andouille sausage, sliced into medallions
6 oz mushrooms, sliced
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
12 oz penne pasta
½ cup diced fire-roasted tomatoes
3½ cups chicken broth
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (salt-free or adjust to taste)
7 oz cream cheese
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Instructions
In a large skillet or braiser over medium heat, brown sausage slices for about 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add penne, diced tomatoes, broth, and Cajun seasoning. Stir and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Lower heat, add cream cheese in chunks, and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
Return sausage to the skillet, mix to combine, and season with salt as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Swap andouille with kielbasa or Italian sausage for milder heat.
Add extra veggies like broccoli, spinach, or onions.
For lighter creaminess, substitute cream cheese with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Simmer uncovered to thicken the sauce if needed.
