Name: One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces; 14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced on the diagonal; 1 ¼ cups heavy cream; ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese; 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups dried penne pasta; 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste; 1 tablespoon minced Italian flat-leaf parsley

I absolutely love sharing this One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe with friends and family because it hits all the right notes for me: rich, creamy, perfectly spiced, and so incredibly comforting. The tender chicken and smoky sausage swim in a luxurious Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of penne pasta. It’s one of those dishes that seem complex but comes together with surprisingly little fuss, and once you taste it, I’m sure you’ll fall in love just like I did.

Why You'll Love This One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe

What really excites me about this recipe is the bold, vibrant flavor profile. The Cajun seasoning adds this perfect kick that livens up the creamy Alfredo sauce without overpowering it. The smoky sausage paired with juicy, tender chicken creates this amazing balance of savory flavors, while the garlic and Parmesan bring out a deep richness that makes the dish feel indulgent yet approachable. Every bite is bursting with personality and warmth.

Another reason I’m such a fan is how easy it is to whip up. Since everything cooks in just one pot, I don’t have to juggle multiple pans or worry about washing a mountain of dishes later. Cooking the pasta right in the sauce means each noodle is infused with incredible flavor. I love meals that feel special but don’t require hours in the kitchen — this one absolutely fits that description.

This One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe is perfect for so many occasions. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner where I want comfort food fast or a casual weekend gathering with friends, it always gets rave reviews. Something about the creamy sauce dressed with a zesty Cajun twist makes it feel a little festive, so it’s great for impressing guests without stress. To me, this recipe stands out because it combines that smoky South-inspired heat with Italian comfort in a way that feels fresh and exciting.

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up shows a spoon filled with cooked yellow penne pasta and a slice of light pink sausage resting on top. The spoon is held over a pot of creamy, orange-yellow soup with small bubbles and bits of seasoning floating in it. The background is slightly blurred, focusing on the pasta and sausage on the spoon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the smoky sausage to the creamy heavy cream, each element is simple yet essential for making the dish so crave-worthy.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a rich base to brown the chicken and sausage while adding a fruity aroma.
Chicken: Cut into bite-sized pieces so it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps the chicken season evenly.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and balances the richness.
Smoked sausage: Brings a smoky, savory depth that makes the dish unforgettable.
Garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the cooking liquid and prevents the dish from becoming too salty.
Heavy cream: The key to that silky, decadent Alfredo sauce.
Dried penne pasta: Holds onto the sauce perfectly with its tube shape.
Cajun seasoning: Packs in bold spices that give the dish its signature kick.
Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to add umami and creamy texture.
Minced Italian flat-leaf parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of green color to brighten the final dish.

Directions

Step 1: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large, covered cooking pot over medium-high heat. While it warms, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for that perfect seasoning base.

Step 2: Add the chicken to the hot oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the chicken properly gives it great texture and flavor, so take your time here.

Step 3: Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and cook alongside the chicken until the sausage is lightly browned, which should take about 5 more minutes. This step builds smoky richness that balances the creaminess perfectly.

Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn. Garlic adds that beautiful aromatic note that ties everything together.

Step 5: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, the heavy cream, and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning along with the dried penne pasta. Stir everything together well, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Watch the pot carefully so it doesn’t boil over.

Step 6: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce. This is when that magic happens—the pasta soaks up all the creamy, spicy goodness.

Step 7: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Then mix in the minced Italian flat-leaf parsley for a fresh, herby finish. Sprinkle extra Cajun seasoning on top if you like a bolder kick.

Servings and Timing

This One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe serves about 6 hungry people, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. The prep time is conveniently short at 15 minutes, and the cooking time clocks in around 35 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at just about 50 minutes from start to finish. There’s no additional resting time required—you can serve it immediately so it’s warm and comforting straight from the pot.

How to Serve This One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Two white bowls filled with a mixed dish of cooked penne pasta, sliced sausage rounds, and light brown chicken strips. The penne pasta is creamy and slightly speckled with seasoning. The sausage is pinkish-red with a smooth texture, and the chicken pieces are firm with a slight golden brown color. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top for garnish. Near the bowls, there is a white bowl filled with grated cheese and another bowl with a reddish-brown seasoning. A silver fork lies between the bowls on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I find that serving this dish hot straight from the pot really enhances the creamy texture and spicy aroma. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner served alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For something heartier, garlic bread or cheesy biscuits are incredible accompaniments that soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

When I want to add a little elegance, I like garnishing the pasta with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan. Serving it in shallow bowls helps highlight the beautiful creamy sauce and makes portioning easier. It also looks so inviting plated this way, especially if you add some colorful bell pepper strips or roasted cherry tomatoes on the side.

For beverages, I usually go with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp pilsner beer, both of which cut through the richness nicely. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, sparkling water with a wedge of lime or a citrusy iced tea works beautifully. This recipe truly shines at casual weeknight meals, but it’s festive enough for holiday dinners or weekend gatherings with friends wanting something flavorful and fuss-free.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you don’t have smoked sausage on hand, Italian sausage or andouille sausage are fabulous substitutes that bring their own unique flavor twists. You could even swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood variation that’s just as delicious.

If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. For a lighter version, I sometimes use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it won’t be quite as rich. And if you want a dairy-free or vegan option, you can try using coconut cream and a plant-based parmesan substitute—just be sure to adjust the seasoning since those changes affect the base flavor.

I also love experimenting with the Cajun seasoning blend. Add a little smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even some chipotle powder for a smoky heat variation. Cooking this on the stovetop works perfectly, but if you have a large enough ovenproof pot, finishing it uncovered in the oven for a few minutes can create a lovely browned top layer of cheese and sauce that’s a treat.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I always make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pasta before sealing it to minimize air exposure and keep the creamy sauce from drying out or separating.

Freezing

This pasta freezes well, although the texture of cream sauces can sometimes change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

When reheating, I recommend gently warming the pasta on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to restore creaminess and avoid burning. Microwaving works too, but add liquid and cover loosely for even heating. Avoid high heat or overcooking at this stage to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can swap in other pasta shapes like rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it cooks perfectly.

Is this recipe very spicy because of the Cajun seasoning?

The Cajun seasoning adds a nice, mild to moderate kick, but you can always adjust the amount according to your heat preference. If you prefer it less spicy, start with less seasoning and add more at the end for taste. It’s very customizable!

What’s the secret to getting the chicken tender and flavorful?

Seasoning the chicken well before cooking and browning it properly in hot oil allows it to lock in juices and develop great flavor. Cooking it just until browned but not overdone helps keep the chicken tender once it simmers with the pasta and sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead and keep everything ready to go, but I recommend cooking it fresh for the best creamy texture. If you need to make it in advance, store leftovers as directed and gently reheat to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

What can I serve on the side with this pasta?

I love pairing this dish with a crisp green salad, sautéed or roasted veggies, or some warm garlic bread. These sides add freshness or crunch that complements the creamy, smoky pasta perfectly.

Conclusion

I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe the next time you crave something rich, comforting, and full of bold flavor. It’s a dish that feels special without demanding too much time in the kitchen, and it never fails to impress whoever I serve it to. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!