Name: Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 13 oz. andouille sausage links (about 4 links), sliced into medallions; 6 oz. fresh baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and thinly sliced; ½ medium red bell pepper, stemmed, seeds removed, and thinly sliced; ½ medium yellow bell pepper, stemmed, seeds removed, and thinly sliced; 3 large garlic cloves, minced; 12 oz. gluten-free penne pasta; ½ cup (120 g) canned, diced fire-roasted tomatoes; 3 ½ cups (830 ml) chicken broth; 2 tablespoons no-salt or low-salt Cajun seasoning mix; 7 oz. cream cheese; Salt to taste; Fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped; Red pepper flakes

If you’re craving something rich and bursting with bold flavors, this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe will absolutely hit the spot. I remember the first time I made this for a Friday night dinner—it was the perfect end to a hectic week. The smoky and spicy andouille sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy, dreamy sauce, making every bite a little celebration in your mouth.

This recipe shines when you want comfort food that’s quick but feels special, especially if you love a little Cajun kick without a ton of fuss. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free with the right pasta choice, which means you don’t have to compromise on flavor or texture. You’re going to love how simple pantry staples come alive in this dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic in this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe comes from the savory sausage, fresh veggies, and that luscious creamy sauce all melding wonderfully. When shopping, look for quality andouille sausage and fire-roasted tomatoes—they make a noticeable difference in the final taste.

Andouille sausage: This smoked sausage packs the authentic Cajun punch that defines the dish—slice into medallions for even cooking.
Baby bella mushrooms: Cleaned and thinly sliced, they add a subtle earthiness and meaty texture.
Red and yellow bell peppers: These bring sweetness and a splash of color, balancing the spices nicely.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic base—don’t skip it!
Gluten-free penne pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta to hold the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
Canned diced fire-roasted tomatoes: Adds a subtle smoky depth and a touch of acidity.
Chicken broth: Look for a low sodium option so you can control the saltiness better in the dish.
Cajun seasoning mix: This is your spice blend hero—two tablespoons give just the right heat and flavor complexity.
Cream cheese: The secret to that ultra creamy sauce that clings to every pasta piece.
Salt: Adjust at the end to suit your palate.
Fresh Italian parsley (optional): For garnish, adds freshness and a pop of green.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you want to kick up the heat even more.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in my fridge and who I’m cooking for. It’s such a flexible dish that encourages playing around with heat levels and add-ins.

Spicy variation: I sometimes add extra red pepper flakes or swap in a hotter sausage variety for those who crave more heat—my partner loves it fiery!
Veggie boost: If I’m feeling extra healthy, I toss in kale or spinach at the end for some greens without messing with the flavor.
Dairy-free adaptation: You can replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or coconut cream and still get a great creamy texture without dairy.
Protein swap: Instead of andouille sausage, I’ve used spicy chicken sausage or even shrimp for a quick twist.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage to Lock in Flavor

Start by slicing your andouille sausage into medallions about ¼ inch thick. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sausage slices. Cook them until they’re nicely browned on both sides—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Browning the sausage is crucial as it caramelizes the outside, enhancing the smoky, spicy flavor that infuses the whole dish. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate but leave the flavorful drippings in the pan for the veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies Till Tender and Fragrant

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and bell peppers. Stir them around for 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and just starting to brown. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant (watch closely so it doesn’t burn). The idea here is to build layers of flavor, so be patient and let these vegetables do their magic alongside the sausage drippings.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broth, and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced fire-roasted tomatoes, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning mix. Stir to combine, then add your gluten-free penne pasta straight into the skillet. The pasta will cook right in the sauce, soaking up all those robust flavors. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream Cheese for Ultimate Creaminess

Once the pasta is cooked through, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese. This step transforms the sauce into a silky, rich coating for the pasta and sausage. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and everything is well blended—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Taste it and add salt if needed. If the sauce feels too thick, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

The image shows several white bowls of ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. The central bowl holds slices of dark reddish-brown sausage with a visible pattern of white fat. Surrounding this are bowls containing light beige penne pasta, white crumbled cheese, dark brown soy sauce, and a small bowl with red chili flakes. There is also a bowl with sliced red bell peppers and another with sliced white mushrooms with brown centers. Fresh green parsley lies flat on the marble between the bowls, and some yellow bell pepper slices are visible in the top right corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always sprinkle freshly chopped Italian parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor that cuts through the creaminess. Red pepper flakes are my go-to extra if we want a little more heat—sometimes it’s just that slight kick that makes the dish really pop. A grating of Parmesan isn’t traditional here but it’s a nice touch if you’re feeling cheesy!

Side Dishes

To keep things simple and balanced, I usually serve a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette alongside this creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty gluten-free bread works beautifully for soaking up every last bit of sauce. And for veggies, roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli add a nice fresh bite to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy date night or dinner party, I like to serve this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe in deep, wide bowls with garnishes artistically sprinkled on top. Adding a few whole andouille slices around the edge makes it look rustic and inviting. Candlelight dinner? Pair the dish with a smoky red wine to enhance those Cajun vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge where they keep well for about 3 to 4 days. The sauce thickens quite a bit as it chills, so before serving again, I loosen it up by adding a little splash of broth or water and warming it gently while stirring.

Freezing

Freezing this creamy Cajun sausage pasta works fine if you double the batch, but keep in mind the texture of the cream cheese sauce may subtly change. I recommend freezing in portion-sized containers, then thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop gently to maintain creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to evenly warm the sauce. If it looks too thick, a splash of broth or water helps to loosen it up. I avoid microwaving because the sauce tends to separate or lose that silky texture, but if pressed for time, a microwave on medium power with frequent stirring does the job.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While gluten-free penne works great here, you can substitute with any pasta shape you like, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and make sure your pasta cooks well in the broth to absorb the sauce flavors.
How spicy is this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe?

The spice level is moderate thanks to the Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage. It has a warm, smoky heat that’s balanced by the creamy sauce. You can always dial it up with more red pepper flakes or dial it down by reducing the seasoning if you prefer it milder.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or coconut cream to keep it creamy without dairy. The sauce might taste slightly different but will still be delicious and comforting.
Is there a substitute for andouille sausage?

If you can’t find andouille, spicy smoked sausage or chorizo can work well. For a non-pork option, try grilled chicken sausage or even shrimp for a tasty variation.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the pasta?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir frequently for even warming. Avoid high heat to keep the sausage and veggies tender.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe is definitely one I go back to when I want a comforting yet flavorful meal that feels special but doesn’t take forever to make. The combination of smoky sausage, fresh veggies, and that velvety sauce always impresses whoever I’m cooking for. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to in your dinner rotation too.