One Pot Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta (Print Version)

Enjoy a flavorful one pot creamy Cajun turkey sausage pasta. This easy weeknight meal combines tender pasta, savory turkey sausage, and a rich, spicy sauce.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Cajun

# Ingredients:

→ The Hearty Foundation

01 - 1 tbsp olive oil
02 - 1 lb lean ground turkey sausage
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
04 - 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Cajun Spice & Savory Liquid

06 - 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (low sodium preferred)
07 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
08 - 1 tsp dried thyme
09 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
10 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
11 - 12 oz short pasta (e.g., penne, rotini)
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Creamy Dream Finish

13 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
14 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
15 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
16 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground turkey sausage and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add 1 medium yellow onion and 1 large red bell pepper, chopped. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and build the flavor for your Delicious One Pot Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta.
03 - Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add 12 oz short pasta (e.g., penne, rotini). Stir well, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 - Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed, and 1/2 cup heavy cream until melted and smooth. The sauce will thicken as you stir, creating the rich, creamy base for your Delicious One Pot Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta.
05 - Fold in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, as needed. Remember that Cajun seasoning can be salty, so adjust carefully to your preference.
06 - Ladle the Delicious One Pot Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Pasta into bowls. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente. It will continue to absorb sauce and soften slightly as it rests, preventing a mushy texture.
02 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
03 - Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or corn. For a different protein, shrimp or chicken breast would also work wonderfully.
04 - This hearty pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of delicious sauce.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large Pot or Dutch Oven
02 - Cutting Board
03 - Chef's Knife
04 - Measuring Cups
05 - Measuring Spoons
06 - Wooden Spoon or Spatula

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 794 kcal
Total Fat: 38 g
Total Carbohydrate: 73 g
Protein: 41 g