One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

Smoky sausage, bold Cajun spices, and creamy cheese sauce combine in this quick 30-minute one-pot dinner sensation.

# Ingredients:

01 - 12 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa)
02 - 8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
03 - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
06 - 1/2 cup diced onion
07 - 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
08 - 1 cup heavy cream
09 - 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
12 - 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
13 - Salt and pepper to taste
14 - Chopped parsley for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Chop the bell peppers and onions. Measure out Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and shredded Parmesan cheese.
02 - In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the sausage until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside. Add the diced bell peppers and onion to the pot and cook until softened.
03 - Add Cajun seasoning and a small amount of flour to the cooked vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
04 - Add the pasta directly to the simmering pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is al dente.
05 - Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and combine well.
06 - Top the finished dish with chopped parsley, additional grated Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve immediately.

# Notes & Tips:

01 - For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed after combining all the ingredients.