Easy Cajun Penne Pasta with Chicken Sausage
Easy Cajun Penne Pasta with Chicken Sausage is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. This one-pan wonder combines tender penne pasta with zesty chicken sausage, enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s both spicy and comforting. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or serving it at a special gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add your favorite vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience with minimal cleanup!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound chicken sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 9 ounces diced tomatoes with garlic and onion
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/4 tablespoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chicken sausage until browned. Slice into bite-sized pieces and return to the pan.
- Lower the heat and add cream cheese and diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring until melted.
- Mix in reserved chicken broth and all spices; adjust texture with pasta water if needed.
- Toss cooked penne into the skillet until coated well. Serve hot with optional toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg