One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
This One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta is creamy, smoky, spicy, and incredibly comforting.Juicy chicken and savory sausage are cooked together with garlic and Cajun spices for maximum flavor.The pasta simmers directly in the creamy Alfredo sauce, absorbing every delicious seasoning.Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup quick and stress-free.It is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, family gatherings, or casual entertaining.Every forkful delivers cheesy richness with a satisfying Cajun kick.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with half the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until lightly browned.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Stir in onions and garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
- Add uncooked penne pasta directly into the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and add additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother sauce texture.
- Smoked sausage adds deep savory flavor to the dish.
- Heavy cream creates the richest Alfredo consistency.
- Stir pasta frequently to prevent sticking.
- Cajun seasoning levels can be adjusted for heat preference.
- Penne pasta works best because it holds the sauce well.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy.
- The sauce thickens more as the pasta cools.