Welcome to Your New Favorite Recipe!
Hey there! If you’re like me, some weeknights can feel a bit hectic, and you need a go-to meal that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing. Well, have I got a treat for you! This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also bursting with flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Plus, because it’s all cooked in one pot, clean-up is a breeze—just the way I like it!
Nutritional Benefits of This Recipe
Beyond its deliciousness, this dish has a few nutritional highlights! First, the sausage provides protein that keeps you full and satisfied, while the pasta delivers those comforting carbs. If you sneak in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach, you’ll get added vitamins and minerals too. And let’s not forget the creamy sauce! You can use lighter versions of cream or even dairy alternatives.
Adaptable Variations
- Switch Up the Sausage: Want a healthier spin? Try turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to amp up the nutrition and color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a tummy-friendly version.
Your Easy One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Cajun sausage (sliced)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cups pasta (penne or your favorite)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the sliced sausage over medium heat until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside for later.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the pasta, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and the browned sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your tasty bowl of creamy goodness!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If your pasta seems too dry, add a splash more of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days! Just reheat on the stove and add a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Feel free to make it spicier by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:
- A large pot or Dutch oven (perfect for one pot recipes)
- A cutting board and a knife (for all those yummy veggies)
- A wooden spoon or spatula (for mixing and stirring)
- A measuring cup (for liquids and pasta)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! You can swap it for any pasta you love, like rotini or farfalle.
- Is this dish spicy? It depends on the Cajun sausage you use! If you like less spice, look for a milder version or adjust the seasoning.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Sure! Use coconut milk or a non-dairy cashew cream in place of heavy cream.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply use a plant-based sausage and add more veggies for extra flavor!
- Is it okay to freeze this pasta dish? Yes! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in an airtight container to freeze for later.
Let’s Connect!
Did you try out this creamy Cajun sausage pasta? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more delicious weeknight meal ideas that make cooking fun and stress-free!
