One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Cream Cheese

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup milk; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I love whipping up dishes that are not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Cream Cheese is my go-to recipe when I want a hearty meal without the hassle of excessive cleanup. With the perfect blend of spices and creaminess from the cheese, this dish has become a favorite in my household. In just 30 minutes, I can serve up a comforting, delicious meal that's bursting with flavor and sure to impress family and friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-16T13:46:18.701Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how well the flavors blended together. The creamy texture of the cream cheese combined with the spicy Cajun seasoning creates a dish that is both comforting and exhilarating. I learned that cooking pasta in the same pot as the sausage allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite delightful.

Another aspect I love about this dish is its adaptability. If I want to spice things up, I add more Cajun seasoning or throw in some bell peppers for added crunch. Cooking should be fun and flexible, and this recipe embodies that perfectly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Bold Cajun spices that awaken your taste buds
One-pot convenience makes cleanup a breeze

The Creamy Component

The creamy texture of this Cajun sausage pasta primarily comes from the cream cheese. Using softened cream cheese ensures it integrates smoothly into the dish, creating a velvety sauce without any lumps. For an even richer flavor, consider using a flavored cream cheese, like herb or garlic. If you don't have cream cheese on hand, a blend of heavy cream and sour cream can provide similar creaminess with a slightly tangy twist.

As you incorporate the cream cheese, keep the heat low to prevent it from curdling, which can happen if the mixture is too hot. Stir continuously until it achieves a glossy finish, indicating that it’s well combined with the pasta and broth. This step is essential for achieving that luxurious mouthfeel characteristic of creamy pasta dishes.

Cajun Spice Balance

Cajun seasoning is the star of this dish, providing warmth and depth of flavor. Depending on your spice tolerance, you may want to adjust the amount used; if you prefer milder flavors, start with a half teaspoon and increase from there. It's easy to add more spice afterwards but difficult to reduce heat without diluting the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute Cajun seasoning with a mixture of paprika, cayenne, and dried herbs.

Adding the Cajun seasoning at different stages can also enhance its flavor. Consider sprinkling a pinch into the sautéed onions and garlic, allowing the spices to bloom and release their essential oils, which will elevate the overall seasoning of the dish. This technique creates a more well-rounded flavor profile, ensuring every bite is packed with that signature Cajun punch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup milk
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all ingredients before you begin cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large pot over medium heat, add the sliced Cajun sausage. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Pasta and Broth

Stir in the penne pasta, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Incorporate Cream Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and milk. Stir until creamy and well combined, then add the cooked sausage back to the pot.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or incorporate diced jalapeños into the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency. Be cautious not to overheat as this may cause the cream to separate.

If you prefer to make it further in advance, consider cooking the pasta slightly less than al dente. Reheating will cook the pasta more, preventing it from becoming mushy. Store the components separately for maximum freshness; the sausage and sauce can be refrigerated while the pasta can be stored in a separate container.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delightful on its own, but elevating it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad can create a well-rounded meal. For added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs before serving. They will provide a contrasting texture that complements the creaminess of the pasta beautifully.

For an herby finish, feel free to experiment with different garnishes. Fresh basil or thyme can enhance the flavor, while a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a savory depth. If you want a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce can kick the flavors up a notch right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta works well, such as rigatoni or macaroni.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but it's best fresh as the pasta may absorb more sauce upon reheating.

→ What can I substitute for Cajun sausage?

You can use any cooked sausage or even chicken for a lighter option.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?

Absolutely! Replace the sausage with your favorite veggie sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.