This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is bold, smoky, and packed with flavor in every bite. Crispy seared smoked sausage is tossed with tender pasta in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, finished with parmesan and sweet corn for a subtle pop of sweetness. It’s a one-pan style dinner that’s hearty, satisfying, and comes together quickly. If you’re looking for more weeknight meals that feel indulgent but are actually pretty easy, make sure to check out our creamy ranch beef pasta next!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta is all about balance. The smoky sausage brings richness, the Cajun seasoning adds heat, and the creamy sauce ties everything together. The corn adds just enough sweetness to round it out without overpowering the dish.
Tips for Success
- Sear the sausage well to build flavor before removing it.
- Whisk the flour thoroughly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Add liquid slowly when building the sauce for a smooth texture.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency as needed.
How to Serve
This dish is filling on its own, but you can add:
- A simple green Side Salad
- Cheddar Garlic Biscuits or Garlic Breadsticks
- Browned Butter Brussels Sprouts
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- 16 ounces gemelli pasta
- 1 ring (14 ounces) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 can (15-ounces) sweet corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Add sausage and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sprinkle in flour. Whisk, scraping up browned bits, until a paste forms and begins to brown.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Bring to a light simmer, whisky continuously until slight thickened. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add corn and Parmesan. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring.
- Return pasta and sausage to the skillet. Toss to combine.
- Add reserved pasta water as needed, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
This recipe was inspired by Smoked Sausage Pasta on iamhomesteader.com.
More Quick Meal Ideas
See More →
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
Creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo with tender pasta, golden chicken, and a rich Parmesan sauce. A no-fail comfort dinner!
Sweet Corn Ravioli
Creamy sweet corn ravioli made with cheese ravioli, parmesan, and garlic. An easy skillet dinner that feels cozy and comforting.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Buffalo Chicken Salad with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and avocado ranch—so good, you’ll never want a plain salad again!