Description
This Easy One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Made with spicy Cajun turkey sausage, creamy cheese, and a zesty tomato broth, all cooked together in one skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Sausage and Seasoning
- 1 (13 oz) pack Cajun turkey sausage, cut into coins
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
Liquid Ingredients and Base
- 1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ pound or approximately 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet that can accommodate the pasta and has a lid, cook the Cajun turkey sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until nicely browned to your preference.
- Set Sausage Aside: Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, but do not discard the sausage grease from the pan.
- Sauté Garlic and Add Liquids: Using the same skillet and leftover sausage grease, sauté the chopped garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with chilies, and heavy cream. Add the Cajun seasoning and stir to combine.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the dry bowtie pasta, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer on low heat for approximately 14 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
- Combine and Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, return the browned sausage to the skillet and toss in most of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a little for garnish or extra cheesiness. Stir well to combine and melt the cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of Cajun seasoning depending on your spice preference.
- Be sure to keep the sausage grease in the pan as it adds flavor when sautéing the garlic.
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid and seems dry, you can add a splash of water or additional chicken broth during cooking.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Bowtie pasta can be substituted with penne, rotini, or any other pasta shape you prefer.
