Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 (13 oz) pack Cajun andouille sausage, cut into coins; 1 tbsp chopped garlic; 1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth (about 2 cups); ½ cup heavy cream; 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies; 8 oz dry bowtie pasta (½ pound or approximately 2 cups); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (see notes)

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Short, Catchy Intro

So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen huh? Same. This one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta gives you big flavor with minimal drama. One pan, a little sizzle, some noodly comfort, and dinner on the table before you can overthink it.

If you are into sausagey comfort food or love quick weeknight wins you might also enjoy this hearty creamy sausage potato soup I found while browsing recipes. Trust me it pairs well with a lazy evening and zero guilt.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

It cooks in one pan which means less cleanup and more couch time. It tastes rich and decadent without needing a Michelin degree. You brown the sausage, simmer the pasta in that glorious sausage grease, toss in cheese, and boom dinner.

It is pleasantly forgiving too. Overcook the pasta a tad and it still tastes great. Under-season a little and you can always add more cajun seasoning at the end. This recipe is idiot proof even I did not mess it up the first time. Wanna impress someone or just yourself? This does both.

Also FYI this recipe uses canned Rotel which brings a tiny pop of heat and acidity that keeps the cream from feeling too heavy. IMO small things like that make a big difference.

If you like bold sausage flavors you will get why this works so well. That page reminded me how comforting sausage can be in any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 (13oz) pack cajun andouille sausage ((cut into coins))
1 tbsp chopped garlic
1 (14.5oz) can chicken broth ((about 2 cups))
½ cup heavy cream
1 (10oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies
8 ounces dry bowtie pasta ((½ pound or approximately 2 cups))
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp cajun seasoning (*see notes)

Keep it simple. The whole list fits in one shopping bag and maybe your hopes for tonight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large skillet (big enough to eventually fit the pasta that also has a lid), cook the sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until browned to your liking.
Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Don’t get rid of the sausage grease in the pan!
In the same skillet, sauté the garlic in the leftover sausage grease for about a minute and then pour in the can of chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and about 1 tsp of cajun seasoning. Stir in the dry pasta, cover with a lid, and simmer on LOW for about 14 minutes.
Once the pasta is fully cooked, toss in the cooked sausage and a few cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the sausage browning step. Do not skip it. Browning gives flavor and color so do it with pride.
Dumping the grease. Save that sausage grease. It is flavor gold. Use it to cook the garlic and start the sauce.
Cooking on high heat when pasta is in the pan. High heat makes the liquid evaporate fast and the pasta might stick. Simmer on low and check once in a while.
Using super old cheese. Old cheese will clump and become sad. Fresh shredded cheddar melts way better.
Forgetting to taste and adjust. Too salty, add a splash of cream. Too bland, add a pinch more cajun seasoning. Food is a two way conversation.

Alternatives & Substitutions

No Andouille sausage What now? Use kielbasa or smoked sausage. They bring smoke and savory notes close enough.
No heavy cream Use half and half or whole milk with a tablespoon of butter if you must. It will be a little less rich but still comforting.
No Rotel Use diced tomatoes and a little chopped green chili or jalapeno if you like heat. Or skip the heat entirely if you are making this for people who fear spice.
Cheese swap Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretch.
Pasta change Want to switch shapes Go for penne or rotini. Make sure cooking time matches the shape and adjust the simmer time a bit.

Also if you love mashups like tacos and pasta check out this playful cheesy beef taco pasta idea for when you want a Tex Mex vibe.

My two cents Keep it loose and have fun. Swap a bit, experiment, and remember food is forgiving.

FAQ

Q Why use Rotel instead of plain tomatoes
A Rotel adds tiny chili pieces and a little kick plus acidity that brightens the cream. You can use plain tomatoes but you will lose that mild heat and tang.

Q Can I use a different pasta shape
A Yes of course. Use penne, rotini, or shells. Just check the package time and adjust simmering time a bit.

Q Can I make this vegetarian
A Want a vegetarian twist Try spicy vegetarian sausage or smoked tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q How spicy does this get
A It depends on the cajun seasoning and the Rotel. Start with 1 tsp, taste, and add more if you want extra bite. You control the fire.

Q Can I freeze leftovers
A You can but the texture changes a bit. Freeze portions without extra cheese and add fresh shredded cheddar when reheating for best melt.

Q What is a quick tip for creaminess
A Add cheese a little at a time and stir until melted. Avoid boiling too hard after adding cheese to keep the sauce smooth.

Q Any ideas for toppings
A Green onion, chopped parsley, extra shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime if you want a citrus pop.

Final Thoughts

This one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta hits fast and hard on comfort and flavor with minimal fuss. You get smoky sausages, garlicky goodness, creamy sauce, and melted cheese all in one pan. It feeds a crowd or a single hungry person with equal enthusiasm.

Now go impress someone or yourself with your new culinary skills You have earned it Have fun and remember to save the sausage grease for flavor wins

Conclusion

If you want to see another take or compare notes check out this original online version at One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta – Pass Me Some Tasty.