Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is bold, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes. With tender pasta, smoky sausage, and a rich Cajun-spiced cream sauce, this five-ingredient wonder is a true weeknight hero. Whether you’re cooking for the family or craving a cozy one-pan meal, this quick and flavorful dish brings a little southern flair to your table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 5 Ingredients: Simple pantry and fridge staples!
• One-Pan Sauce: No fuss, minimal cleanup.
• Fast & Flavorful: Ready in about 20 minutes.
• Customizable Heat: Use your favorite Cajun seasoning for just the right spice.
• Creamy & Savory: Parmesan and heavy cream make the sauce silky and rich.

Ingredients

• 14 oz smoked sausage, cut into small slices (jalapeño cheddar sausage recommended)
• 12 oz pasta (Rotini works great)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Sauté the Sausage

In a medium skillet, add the sliced sausage over medium heat.
Sauté for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through. This adds flavor and crisp edges.

Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low.
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning.
Stir well to combine, and simmer for 4–5 minutes, allowing the cream to heat and the flavors to meld. The sauce will begin to thicken slightly.

Add the Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Mix until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce and sausage is well distributed.

Serve

Serve hot, straight from the pan, optionally garnished with a little extra Parmesan or chopped parsley.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Thicker Sauce: Simmer the cream longer or add extra Parmesan for a thicker consistency.
• Want More Spice? Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Use Andouille Sausage for a more traditional Cajun flavor.
• Mix in Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or spinach work beautifully.
• Try Other Cheeses: A little mozzarella or cheddar can add melty texture.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up that creamy Cajun sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
• Roasted Veggies: Pair with roasted broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Parsley or green onion for a fresh pop.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add extra Parmesan to help thicken.

What sausage works best?
A: Smoked sausage or jalapeño cheddar adds great flavor. Andouille is also perfect for a Cajun twist.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes! Just follow package instructions and drain well before adding to the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?
A: It depends on your Cajun seasoning. For a milder dish, choose a low-sodium or mild blend.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta proves that quick and simple doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With smoky sausage, spicy Cajun seasoning, and a dreamy Parmesan cream sauce, it’s rich, comforting, and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

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