One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Spinach

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) penne pasta; 1 lb (450g) Cajun sausage, sliced; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations

I love whipping up this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with Spinach when I need a dinner that's as quick to make as it is bursting with flavor. The blend of Cajun spices with creamy sauce creates a rich dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. What I appreciate the most is that everything cooks in one pot, making clean-up effortless and allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. Plus, the addition of fresh spinach adds a touch of nutrition and color to the plate, making this dish a favorite in my household.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-16T14:50:18.999Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how effortlessly the flavors came together in one pot. The sausage adds a smoky depth while the Cajun spices give it that necessary kick. I remember the moment I took my first bite, and the creaminess of the sauce paired with the tender pasta was simply unforgettable. I received compliments from my family, which made me want to cook it more often!

One tip I’ve found handy is to let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, clinging beautifully to the pasta and enhancing the overall experience. This little trick really transforms the dish, making it feel even more indulgent and delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A deliciously creamy sauce that complements the Cajun spices perfectly
One-pot cooking means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
Packed with nutritious spinach for a complete meal

The Role of Cajun Sausage

Cajun sausage is the star of this dish; its unique blend of spices adds a depth of flavor that enhances every ingredient. This sausage not only brings heat but also a savory richness to the creamy sauce. If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute it with a smoked sausage. Just note that this swap may alter the overall flavor profile, so consider adjusting the Cajun seasoning to maintain the dish's signature taste.

When cooking the sausage, aim for a nice sear on the slices, which contributes a delightful texture and caramelization. Sautéing it for around 4-5 minutes will yield a golden brown color and enhance the dish's savory components. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as overcooking can lead to a dry texture.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The balance between the creamy texture and Cajun spices is essential for this pasta. Using heavy cream is crucial here, as it provides that luscious richness that coats the pasta beautifully. You can also replace heavy cream with a combination of half-and-half and a pat of butter for a lighter option, but the sauce may be less rich.

When adding the cream, ensure to do it after the pasta is cooked to avoid curdling. Stir in the cream gradually over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to meld with the sausage and broth. If the sauce appears too thick, a splash of additional chicken broth can adjust the consistency to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is incredibly versatile in terms of serving. You can top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor or garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

For leftovers, store the pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes well; just be aware that the texture of the spinach may change once thawed, but the overall flavor will remain delicious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz (340g) penne pasta
1 lb (450g) Cajun sausage, sliced
3 cups fresh spinach
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Sausage

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Pasta and Broth

Return the sausage to the pot. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one pot meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated parmesan cheese before serving. It melts beautifully and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking to customize this dish, consider swapping in different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms alongside spinach for added flavor and texture. Just remember to sauté them until soft and tender, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes before adding in the pasta and broth.

For a vegetarian version, you could replace the sausage with a plant-based equivalent and ensure you’re using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This not only brings a similar texture but can also be a great way to enjoy this recipe while keeping it meat-free.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common problem when making creamy pasta dishes is the sauce separating. To avoid this, keep the heat low when adding the cream, and stir gently but thoroughly. If you notice separation, a quick whisk while heating can help bring the emulsion back together.

If the pasta turns out too mushy, it may be due to overcooking. Always check the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time, and remember that it will continue cooking slightly while resting in the pot with residual heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute with chicken sausage or even a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce's consistency.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and adjust the seasonings to taste.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.