Description
A rich, spicy, and comforting weeknight dinner that cooks entirely in one pot, saving time and cleanup while delivering restaurant-quality flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the sausage, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Measure out spices and cream.
- Heat butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving fat in the pot.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add onion to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and Cajun seasoning, stirring constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and marinara sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add dry pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if too dry.
- Once pasta is al dente and liquid is absorbed, remove from heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella and cooked sausage until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcook the pasta as it continues to absorb liquid off the heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Use good quality sausage for best flavor. This recipe does not freeze well due to the cream and cheese.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 850
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
Keywords: one-pot meal, creamy pasta, Cajun sausage, weeknight dinner, easy recipes, family friendly, quick meals