One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

Name: One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Feast | Global Banquet

I love making One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce when I want something satisfying yet easy. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and pasta all cooked together in one pot makes for a hearty meal that requires minimal cleanup. It's quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible—everyone in the house knows a delicious meal is on its way!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-17T13:54:18.781Z

Making this One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta was a delightful journey for me. I experimented with different spices to achieve that authentic Cajun flavor, and the addition of cream really tied everything together beautifully. The key is to stir the pasta occasionally while it's cooking to keep it from sticking. I also love how the sausage releases its flavors into the sauce, creating an incredible depth of taste.

What I appreciate most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by using mild or hot sausage or adding extra red pepper flakes, depending on your preference. Plus, since everything cooks in one pot, dinner is ready in no time, making it a hassle-free option for a weeknight meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, spicy flavors that tantalize the taste buds
Creamy consistency that envelops every bite
Minimal cleanup with only one pot needed

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta serves a vital role in achieving the dish's rich flavor and creamy texture. The smoked sausage provides a robust, smoky depth that permeates the sauce, while the bell pepper and onion add a hint of sweetness and freshness. Smoky sausage also balances the heat from the Cajun seasoning, ensuring a complex flavor that isn’t overwhelming. Always choose a good-quality, seasoned sausage to enhance the overall dish.

The inclusion of heavy cream transforms the sauce into a luscious, creamy blend. It thickens during cooking, helping to cling to the pasta, making every bite satisfying. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but the consistency will be thinner. Just keep in mind that you may need to cook down the sauce a bit longer to achieve a similar creaminess.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Pasta

To ensure the penne pasta is perfectly cooked and absorbs the flavors of the sauce, it’s crucial to stir occasionally while it simmers. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and allows it to cook evenly. Aim for an al dente texture, which usually takes about 20 minutes of cooking time. If you accidentally overcook it, don’t panic; it can still be salvaged by adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the dish.

When simmering, make sure to keep the heat at a medium to medium-low temperature. A rolling boil can cause the pasta to become mushy. Instead, aim for gentle bubbles in the sauce. Once done, allow the pasta to rest in the sauce for a few minutes off the heat to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and penne pasta to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Finish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be easily made ahead for meal prep. Prepare everything up until the cooking step, then store the sausage and vegetables in the fridge for up to two days. When you are ready to cook, simply add the fresh ingredients to the pot, along with the cream and broth. This shortens your cooking time significantly on busy nights.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth when warming up on the stovetop to prevent it from getting too thick. You can also reheat gently in the microwave, but be sure to stir intermittently for even heating.

Flavor Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize this recipe according to what you have on hand. Adding a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking will enhance the dish’s nutritional profile. For an extra level of heat, diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes can be included; just adjust according to personal spice preferences.

For a different protein option, consider substituting the smoked sausage with grilled chicken or shrimp. Both will pair wonderfully with the creamy tomato sauce, though they will require different cooking times for the best results. Add shrimp at the same time as the cream, cooking just until pink and curled.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap penne for any pasta shape you prefer, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it altogether and add more vegetables.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen it up.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the meal nicely!