One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta (Print Version)
One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta: easy, flavorful, and all in one pan. Your perfect comforting meal for busy nights!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American (Cajun Inspired)
Dietary: Dairy (can be modified), Gluten (can be modified)
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb spicy Cajun turkey sausage, sliced
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
→ Flavor Builders
05 -
4 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
06 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted if possible)
07 -
2-3 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
08 -
1 tsp dried oregano
→ Creamy Finish
09 -
12 oz penne pasta, uncooked
10 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
11 -
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
→ Garnish & Heat
12 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
13 -
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, grab your big pot or Dutch oven. Drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in your sliced turkey sausage and let it get nice and browned, about 5-7 minutes. You want some good color on it, a little char even. This step builds so much flavor, honestly. I used to rush this, and the dish just wasn't as rich. Don't make my mistake!
02 -
Once the sausage is browned, scoop it out and set it aside. Add the remaining olive oil to the pot, then throw in your chopped onion. Let it soften for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add your minced garlic. Oh, that smell! It's the best part, right? Cook for just another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic burn, I've done that, and it’s a sad, bitter flavor you can't come back from.
03 -
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in the Cajun seasoning and dried oregano. Bring this whole beautiful mixture to a simmer. Give it a good stir, making sure nothing is sticking to the bottom. This is where all those spices wake up, and the kitchen starts smelling incredible. I always take a deep breath here, it’s just so inviting!
04 -
Now, add your uncooked penne pasta to the simmering liquid. Stir it well to make sure all the pasta is submerged. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Give it a stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. I once forgot to stir, and the bottom pasta turned into a big clump—lesson learned!
05 -
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and the cooked turkey sausage. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, just until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is warmed through. The sauce will get this gorgeous, velvety texture. This is when I usually sneak a little taste, just to check the seasoning, you know?
06 -
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it's melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – maybe a little more salt or a pinch more Cajun spice? Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like that extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta!
# Notes:
01 -
Always stir the pasta frequently while it's cooking in the sauce; I learned the hard way that it prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
03 -
If you don't have turkey sausage, spicy chicken sausage or even hearty mushrooms work surprisingly well as a substitute.
04 -
Serve this One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up all that amazing sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large Dutch oven or a deep
02 -
heavy-bottomed pot
03 -
cutting board
04 -
sharp knife
05 -
measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 550
Total Fat: 28g
Total Carbohydrate: 45g
Protein: 30g