One Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love when a meal is both delicious and easy to prepare, especially after a long day. This One Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta has become a favorite in our household for its bold flavors and minimal cleanup! The combination of juicy shrimp and savory sausage in a creamy Cajun sauce is not just comforting, it’s also incredibly satisfying. Best of all, everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while I relax and savor every bite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-16T13:46:18.766Z

When I first created this One Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta, I wanted something that would bring together my love for seafood and the rich, smoky flavors of Cajun spices. The first attempt was a hit! I learned that using a blend of heavy cream and broth created the perfect sauce that wasn’t just creamy but also loaded with flavor.

As we gathered around the table, it was the aroma that truly captivated everyone. I realized that the key to success was constantly stirring the pasta as it simmered, ensuring every strand was coated in the luscious sauce. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta
A perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right smoked sausage is crucial for this dish. A good quality sausage not only adds a meaty texture but also infuses the broth with rich flavors. I recommend using andouille sausage for its spicy kick, but feel free to substitute with a milder variety if you prefer a less intense heat level. Additionally, ensure your shrimp are large, ideally 16-20 count, as they will hold up better during cooking and provide satisfying bites.

The heavy cream plays a vital role in creating that lush, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. For a lighter option, you could use half and half, but the sauce may not be as rich and velvety. If you're trying to reduce calories but want to keep a creamy texture, consider using Greek yogurt stirred in at the end after removing the pot from heat to prevent curdling.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a medium heat to allow the onions to soften and the garlic to release its aroma without burning. You want the onions to turn translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If you notice the garlic starting to brown, reduce the heat immediately, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor that affects the overall dish.

For the simmering phase, ensuring that the pot is covered will help trap steam and cook the pasta evenly. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to monitor the liquid level. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is fully cooked, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency without losing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

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

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the shrimp, chicken broth, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and pasta. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until pasta is cooked and the sauce is thickened, about 15 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the browned sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This one-pot dish not only minimizes cleanup but also allows the flavors to deepen as everything cooks together.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, you can add a bit more heavy cream or a splash of white wine while cooking.

Storing and Reheating

This pasta dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be mindful that the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits, which may change the texture. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revitalize the dish, stirring until heated through to prevent it from drying out.

If you’d like to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers. This meal can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions above, again adding a bit of liquid for better consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving this creamy pasta alongside a light green salad or some crusty garlic bread. The refreshing salad can help balance out the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving adds a wonderful depth of umami flavor that complements the Cajun spice beautifully.

If you want to elevate the dish even further, consider drizzling a bit of hot sauce over the top before serving. This can enhance the heat and adds an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a splash of color and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pasta instead of dry?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since fresh pasta cooks faster.

→ What can I substitute for smoked sausage?

You can use chicken sausage or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

The Cajun seasoning provides a mild to moderate spice level. Adjust the amount based on your preference.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge. Cook just before serving for the best flavor.