Creamy Cajun Chicken Sausage Pasta – Easy Weeknight Comfort Food
If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that comes together in less than 40 minutes, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Sausage Pasta is just what you need. Tender penne pasta, smoky chicken sausage, colorful bell peppers, and mushrooms are tossed in a creamy, mildly spicy Cajun sauce that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet tastes like something from your favorite restaurant. It’s hearty, colorful, and full of that signature Cajun kick—without being too spicy for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
- Creamy without using heavy cream
- Family-friendly level of spice
- Easy to adjust for more or less heat
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta – or any short pasta like rotini or rigatoni.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – or avocado oil.
- 13 oz chicken sausage, sliced – choose a smoked or Cajun-seasoned variety.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – store-bought or homemade.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk – adds creaminess without the heaviness of cream.
- ½ cup chicken broth – or vegetable broth.
- 8 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened and cubed
- Grated parmesan cheese and chopped green onions, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped bell peppers and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour the evaporated milk and chicken broth into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cubed cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and browned chicken sausage back to the skillet. Toss well until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve immediately, topped with grated parmesan cheese and sliced green onions for extra flavor and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken Sausage Pasta
- Control the heat: Start with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and adjust to taste.
- Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and whole wheat pasta.
- Extra veggies: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
- Sauce consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth to bring back the creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Cajun Chicken Sausage Pasta with:
- A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or cheesy toast
- A refreshing drink like iced lemonade or sparkling water with lime
Make It Your Own
You can easily customize this pasta by using shrimp, turkey sausage, or grilled chicken instead of chicken sausage. For a dairy-free version, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.
In Summary
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Sausage Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight meal—creamy, flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly light. It’s the perfect recipe to add to your dinner rotation when you’re craving a taste of Cajun comfort without all the fuss.