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Creamy spicy Cajun sausage pasta served in a bowl with herbs.

One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta

A fast, satisfying weeknight meal featuring bold flavors from smoky sausage and creamy sauce, all cooked in one pot.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (about 1/4-inch rounds)
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium if desired)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish and finishing)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced sausage, diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage browns and the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Season with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Add the 12 ounces penne pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 10 to 12 minutes.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce turns creamy and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Serve immediately in bowls, topped with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3g

Notes

For a lighter finish, opt for reduced-fat cream or use half-and-half. You can substitute the sausage for chicken or turkey sausage, or a plant-based version for a vegetarian option.

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