Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Pasta is a bold and comforting dish that combines the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning with a rich, velvety cream sauce. Tossed with your favorite pasta and protein like chicken, shrimp, or sausage, this flavorful one-pan meal is a weeknight favorite that feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold Cajun flavor and creamy richness
• Customizable with your favorite protein and vegetables
• Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights
• Comfort food that’s spicy, creamy, and satisfying
• A family-friendly dish that’s easy to adapt for all taste buds

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 1 lb chicken breast, shrimp, or sausage (sliced or peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat

Directions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the protein
   Season chicken, shrimp, or sausage with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the protein until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables
   In the same skillet, melt butter and add bell pepper and onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Make the sauce
   Lower heat to medium. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir and simmer for 3–5 minutes.
5. Combine
   Add cooked pasta and protein back to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese and toss to coat. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit meat and add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini
• Seafood blend: Use a combination of shrimp and scallops
• Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or plant-based cream alternatives
• Gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce
• Freezing: Not recommended—cream sauces may separate when thawed

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, store-bought works well, or you can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and pepper.

What kind of pasta works best?

Penne, fettuccine, and linguine all work well for this creamy sauce.

Can I use cooked protein?

Yes, add pre-cooked chicken or shrimp toward the end just to heat through.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer it longer or add a small amount of cream cheese or cornstarch slurry.

Can I make it in one pot?

Yes—cook pasta first and use the same pot for the sauce and assembly to save dishes.

What vegetables go well in Cajun pasta?

Bell peppers, onions, spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes all complement the flavors.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce and protein a day in advance.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For creaminess, add a bit of butter or cheese.

What can I serve with Cajun pasta?

A simple salad, crusty garlic bread, or sautéed greens are great sides.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Pasta is a spicy, savory, and deeply satisfying dish that’s incredibly easy to whip up. With its rich sauce, bold seasoning, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a go-to comfort meal in your kitchen. Make it once, and you’ll want to return to this fiery favorite again and again.

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