Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner

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This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner is a rich and comforting one-pan meal that will win over any crowd. Tender bowtie pasta is tossed in a luscious Cajun-seasoned cream sauce with seared sausage and sweet red bell peppers. It’s bold, cozy, and packed with irresistible flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend indulgence, this dish is made in under 30 minutes!

Each bite offers a beautiful contrast—the smoky, slightly spicy sausage mingles with velvety sauce, while the al dente pasta and crisp-tender peppers add perfect texture. And with minimal cleanup, this dish brings max comfort with minimal fuss.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner

• One-pan convenience – Quick prep, easy cleanup
• Bold, savory flavor – Thanks to Cajun seasoning and sausage
• Creamy indulgence – The perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio
• Feeds a crowd – Serves 5 hearty portions
• Customizable heat – Make it mild or spicy to your liking

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What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

This recipe works best with smoked sausage, like andouille or kielbasa, which brings robust flavor and a satisfying bite. Feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or a spicy sausage if you love extra kick. Slicing it into coins and searing it builds the foundation of flavor for the whole dish.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully in its ridges and folds, adding great texture.

Smoked Sausage
Provides smoky, savory richness. Searing it first unlocks its deep flavors.

Red Bell Peppers
Add sweetness and color, balancing the heat of the Cajun spice.

Heavy Cream
Creates the luxurious, velvety base of the sauce that clings to every bite.

Parmesan Cheese
Melts into the sauce for an extra creamy, nutty boost.

Garlic
Fragrant and punchy, it enhances the Cajun profile.

Cajun Seasoning
The soul of the dish. Choose your favorite blend or make your own for a personal twist.

Olive Oil
Used to sear the sausage and peppers while building flavor.

Salt & Pepper
To season each layer and bring the dish together.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Peppers & Garlic

In the same skillet, add sliced red bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until just softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Pour heavy cream into the skillet with peppers and garlic. Stir in Cajun seasoning and simmer 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine All the Goodness

Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage back to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water until creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer another 2-3 minutes until everything is hot and coated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired. Serve warm!

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Serving Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread. It generously serves 5 people, making it a fantastic family dinner or a delicious meal prep idea for the week ahead.

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How To Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers and store up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work great and catch the sauce nicely.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Swap the cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream and use a vegan cheese to mimic the richness.

What vegetables go well in this dish?
Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be added with the peppers for more color and nutrients.

Can I make it spicier?
Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while seasoning the cream sauce.

How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning and sausage are gluten-free.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Dinner is calling your name, here are more dishes you’ll love:

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• One Pot Lasagna Soup
• Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta
• Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go mild or spicy? Did you swap in veggies or try a different sausage?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

You can also explore more cozy meals and bold flavor pairings over on my Life With Livia Pinterest.

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