Description

There’s something deeply satisfying about a one-pot meal that is both comforting and full of flavor. This Easy Creamy Cajun Sausage One-Pot Meal combines tender sausage, colorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that brings everything together effortlessly. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or a casual weekend gathering, this dish is inspired by the bold, hearty flavors of Cajun cuisine. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a meal that delivers maximum taste and satisfaction for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound smoked chicken sausage, sliced (or turkey sausage)
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup cooked rice or cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving a bit of rendered fat in the pan.
Add the onion and bell peppers to the pan. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Sprinkle in paprika, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to coat the vegetables evenly and toast the spices for maximum aroma.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together for a few minutes.
Return the browned sausage to the pan, stirring gently to combine. Let the sausage cook in the simmering broth for about 5 minutes so it absorbs the savory flavors.
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Allow the sauce to thicken for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.
Add the cooked rice or pasta and stir until fully coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot directly from the pan. Pair with crusty bread or a light salad if desired.

Notes

Use smoked turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control heat level.
For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
This dish can be prepared ahead by chopping vegetables and sausage in advance.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes