One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Cheddar

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Cheddar
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I absolutely love making One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Cheddar because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta beautifully, while the Cajun seasoning gives it a delicious kick. This dish is also a time-saver since it all cooks in one pot! With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal that my family adores, and I usually have leftovers for lunch the next day!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-17T14:38:18.970Z

When I first tried my hand at this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, I was skeptical about how the flavors would meld together, but the result was astonishingly good! The smoky sausage infuses the pasta with rich depth, and the creamy cheddar sauce complements it perfectly. One tip I found useful is to let the dish sit off the heat for a few minutes after cooking; it helps the flavors to intensify even further.

Another bonus is the clean-up! Cooking everything in one pot not only saves time, but it also means there's less washing up afterward. I love that I can serve a dish that's both hearty and flavorful with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a hit at the dinner table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture envelops the pasta and sausage beautifully
Perfectly spiced with a Cajun kick that’s addictive
Quick and easy clean-up with just one pot needed

Understanding the Flavors

The harmony of flavors in One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is one of its standout features. The Cajun sausage not only imparts a robust flavor but also adds a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. When sautéing, ensure the sausage is properly browned to develop those rich, caramelized notes, which will elevate the entire dish. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks golden and slightly crisp around the edges.

Cajun seasoning plays an essential role in this recipe, offering that signature warmth and earthiness. If you’re keen for a milder version, consider reducing the quantity, or use a smoked paprika instead for a different layer of flavor. This adjustment can tailor the dish to your spice preference while still retaining its core essence.

Perfecting the Pasta

Choosing the right pasta shape is crucial for this dish. Penne is ideal as its tubular structure allows the creamy sauce to cling well, coating every bite. If you prefer another shape, opt for rigatoni or rotini, but be mindful of the cooking times; thicker pasta may require a few extra minutes. Always taste for doneness—al dente pasta should have a slight bite and not be mushy, ensuring it holds up well in the sauce.

As a tip, stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks in the broth to prevent sticking. Incorporating a splash of extra broth or water if needed can keep things moving smoothly and help you avoid clumping. For a lighter twist, consider substituting half of the pasta with spiralized zucchini or another veggie, which also adds a nutritional boost.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is an excellent meal prep candidate. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just be aware that the texture of the cream might change slightly upon thawing. To revive it, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

When serving, give it a touch of brightness by topping the pasta with freshly chopped parsley or chives. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can elevate the dish even further, providing a savory finish. For those who enjoy a kick, serve with a side of hot sauce, allowing each diner to personalize their spice level.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Add the Pasta and Broth

Stir in the penne pasta along with the chicken broth and Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Incorporate Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Let It Rest

Remove the pot from heat and let the pasta sit for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try garnishing with chopped parsley or more cheese before serving.

Ingredient Flexibility

Feel free to experiment with the types of sausage you use based on your taste preference or dietary needs. Turkey or chicken sausage can be excellent substitutes for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer a meatless version, a hearty plant-based sausage can easily be swapped in, maintaining the dish's spicy essence without meat.

The cheese component is just as versatile. If sharp cheddar isn’t available, mozzarella or a blend of cheeses can work nicely. Using a combination of creamy cheeses will add depth to the sauce and reward you with a delightful stringy texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.

Adjusting for Serving Sizes

This recipe serves about four people, but scaling it up or down is simple. To double, just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients, and add a few extra minutes to allow for cooking time. Conversely, if you’re cooking for one or two, you can halve the ingredients, but I recommend making the full batch for leftovers—it reheats beautifully!

When scaling down, consider using pre-measured spice mixes or smaller packs of sausage to make things easier. You won’t lose out on flavor, and it allows for quick weeknight dinners, keeping prep simple while you delight in a comforting bowl of pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Any smoked or spicy sausage works beautifully in this recipe.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat before serving. Just add a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much.

→ What can I serve this with?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but a simple side salad pairs well!

→ Can I make it spicy?

Yes! You can add more Cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.