Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (Ready in 30 Minutes!)
If you’re craving bold flavors, creamy comfort, and a dinner that comes together fast, this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is exactly what you need. Packed with smoky sausage, tender pasta, colorful bell peppers, and a rich Cajun-spiced cream sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes.
This Cajun pasta recipe is the perfect combination of spicy and creamy. The smoky sausage adds depth, while the Cajun seasoning gives it that signature Louisiana-inspired kick. Best of all, it’s made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or looking for a quick and impressive meal, this easy sausage pasta dinner will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
There are so many reasons this 30 minute pasta recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:
- Ready in just half an hour
- Bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor
- One-pan convenience
- Easily customizable heat level
- Perfect for weeknights or meal prep
The creamy Cajun sauce clings to every piece of pasta, while slices of sausage and sautéed peppers add texture and vibrant color.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this spicy cream pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced onion and sliced bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Seasoning
Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir well so the spices coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan — this adds flavor. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add Cheese and Combine
Lower heat and stir in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Return cooked sausage to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta until al dente and reserve pasta water.
- Brown sausage in skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables and garlic.
- Add broth and cream; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan and return sausage to pan.
- Add pasta and toss to coat.
Notes
What Makes Cajun Pasta So Flavorful?
Cajun cuisine is known for its bold spice blends. Traditional Cajun seasoning typically includes:
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Thyme
- Oregano
The spice mix brings heat, smokiness, and depth that perfectly balance the creamy sauce.
Customize Your Cajun Sausage Pasta
Make It Spicier
Add extra cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Add Protein
Stir in shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Add Vegetables
Try mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Lighten It Up
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy Cajun sausage pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Simple green salad
For entertaining, serve directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezer: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth melting.
- Don’t overcook pasta — it should remain slightly firm.
- Keep heat moderate when adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Brown sausage well for maximum flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different sausage?
Yes! Turkey sausage or spicy Italian sausage work well.
Is this dish very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy. You can adjust Cajun seasoning to control heat.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives, though flavor will differ slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the ultimate 30 minute pasta recipe — bold, creamy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. It brings together smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a perfectly spiced Cajun cream sauce in one easy skillet.
If you’re looking for a quick dinner that feels indulgent without hours in the kitchen, this easy sausage pasta dinner delivers every single time.
Make it once, and it just might become your favorite spicy cream pasta.
