One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta with Three Cheeses

Name: One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta with Three Cheeses
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

I absolutely love cooking one-pot meals because they simplify my life while still delivering bold flavors, and this One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta with Three Cheeses is no exception. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy cheeses, and wonderful spices creates a comforting dish that my family craves. With minimal cleanup, I can focus on enjoying dinner rather than worrying about washing all the pots and pans. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, this dish never fails to impress those at my table.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:06:19.254Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted something that had layers of flavor but was still so easy to make that I could whip it up on a busy weeknight. The key is to use quality Cajun sausage that infuses the pasta with amazing flavor.

As I experimented with the cheese combinations, I discovered that a mix of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy goat cheese worked perfectly together. The result is a luscious sauce that beautifully coats every piece of pasta, which is the total comfort food experience I was aiming for!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy sausage adds a kick that is so satisfying.
Creamy cheese blend creates a deliciously rich sauce.
One-pot convenience means less cleanup without sacrificing flavor.

Mastering the One-Pot Technique

To truly excel at one-pot cooking, maintaining the right heat is essential. Start by sautéing the sausage over medium heat, ensuring it becomes evenly browned and develops a rich flavor without burning. Adjusting the heat down to low while the pasta simmers prevents overcooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Your goal is a creamy, cohesive dish without a thick, sticky mess. Pay attention to the pasta while it cooks; you want it al dente, which usually takes around 15 minutes, depending on your stove's heat.

An important aspect of this recipe is layering flavors. By first browning the sausage and then sautéing the vegetables in the same pot, you capture all the delicious bits left behind, known as fond. This provides a incredible base for the sauce. Make sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot when adding the cream and broth; that’s where much of the flavor lies. Each ingredient should contribute to a harmonious blend that enhances the overall dish.

Cheese Choices and Flavor Balancing

The cheese mixture in this dish is not merely for flavor; it affects the dish's texture and mouthfeel. Cheddar provides a sharp bite, mozzarella brings creaminess and stretch, while goat cheese adds a tangy contrast that elevates the richness. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider replacing some heavy cream with low-fat alternatives or using Greek yogurt, but be careful not to add it too early to avoid curdling. The cheese should be added towards the end to keep it silky and prevent it from becoming grainy.

It's essential to taste and adjust your seasoning as you go. The Cajun seasoning adds a considerable amount of personality to the dish, but if you're aiming for a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount used. Alternatively, for those wanting extra heat, a dash of hot sauce can be added with the cheese for a finishing kick. Balancing the richness of the dish with fresh herbs like parsley will enhance the overall flavors and provide a bright, fresh contrast.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients to make this hearty pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that you have all the ingredients, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal:

Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the penne pasta, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Add Sausage and Cheese

Return the sausage to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir in the cheeses until melted and creamy.

Season and Serve

Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Your One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some bell peppers along with the onion. You can also substitute the sausage with chicken or shrimp for a different twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply follow the recipe, but stop just before adding the cheese. Let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove and stir in the cheese until melted. This not only saves time but allows flavors to deepen overnight, making your meal even tastier.

If you have leftovers, it's worth noting that pasta can dry out after refrigeration. To revive the dish, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating. This will help restore the creamy consistency and ensure every bite remains delicious. Alternatively, portion the pasta into single servings for easy lunches that can be frozen for up to a month, but be sure to leave out the cheese if freezing it, as it may alter the texture when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A refreshing side of cucumber or tomato salad can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta, balancing the meal perfectly. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top just before serving for an extra kick that complements the Cajun flavors brilliantly.

Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a splash of color but also an aromatic component that brightens the palate. If you’re looking to impress guests, consider pairing this dish with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp lager, both of which will harmonize with the flavors of the Cajun sausage and cheese. This recipe is versatile and can easily transition from a casual family dinner to an elegant gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any short pasta like fusilli or rotini as a substitute.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

For an extra kick, add more Cajun seasoning or some crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option available?

Certainly! Replace the sausage with a mix of mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian alternative.