If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together in one pan, this Creamy Cajun Sausage-Style Turkey Pasta Skillet is your new weeknight hero. Packed with bold spices, tender turkey sausage, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s the perfect balance of spicy and creamy that satisfies every bite. Plus, it’s quick to make and uses simple ingredients — ideal for busy nights or casual entertaining. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a hearty, wholesome meal, this skillet recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll soon become a family favorite.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup with all the flavors developed in a single skillet.
- Rich, creamy sauce: The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a velvety finish that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.
- Bold Cajun flavor: The garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne bring warmth and a little kick without overpowering the dish.
- Lean protein upgrade: Turkey sausage keeps it lighter than traditional pork sausage but just as delicious.
- Customizable veggies: Easily swap the bell pepper or add more for extra color and nutrients.
- Ready in about 30 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and fast.
What Goes In
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound turkey sausage, sliced (choose a sausage style with spices similar to Cajun for authentic flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your heat preference)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium if possible)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Large skillet or sauté pan: A 12-inch skillet works best for even cooking.
- Medium pot: To boil the pasta.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sausage and sauce.
- Colander: To drain pasta.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For precise seasoning and liquids.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping veggies and slicing sausage.
Creamy Cajun Sausage-Style Turkey Pasta Skillet in Steps
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onion, Bell Pepper, and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Spices and Liquids
Stir in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices. Then pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Cheese
Return the browned turkey sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it up.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Your Creamy Cajun Sausage-Style Turkey Pasta Skillet is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot and creamy, perfect with a simple side salad or steamed greens.
In-Season Swaps
- Swap bell pepper for zucchini or summer squash when in season for a lighter veggie option.
- Use grape or cherry tomatoes halved for a burst of freshness and acidity.
- Try kale or spinach stirred in at the end for added greens and nutrients.
- Substitute smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a different creamy twist.
- Switch out turkey sausage for chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for variety.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Choosing your pasta: Rigatoni, penne, or rotini hold the sauce beautifully, but any pasta shape works.
- Adjusting heat: If you prefer milder dishes, reduce cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Cheese options: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but mixing in a little parmesan can add depth.
- Meal prep friendly: This skillet reheats well and can be portioned for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy and smooth.
If you want to freeze the dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Handy Q&A
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of turkey sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, pork sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Just make sure it’s sliced and cooked thoroughly before adding to the pasta. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain that Cajun flavor.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best because they hold onto the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand.
Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cream and cheese?
You can substitute coconut cream or a cashew cream for the heavy cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind, the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a moderate kick thanks to the cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne. You can always add hot sauce or extra spices at the table for those who like it spicier.
Because You Liked This
- Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni With Chicken Sausage Turkey — Another rich and flavorful pasta skillet with a fresh herb twist.
- Creamy Poblano Turkey Pasta — A smoky, creamy pasta dish with a touch of heat and vibrant poblano peppers.
The Takeaway
The Creamy Cajun Sausage-Style Turkey Pasta Skillet is a brilliant fusion of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors that come together effortlessly in one pan. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for comfort food while keeping things lean and packed with protein. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or serving it to guests, it’s sure to impress with its bold taste and creamy texture. Remember, this versatile skillet is easy to customize with your favorite veggies and cheeses, making it a go-to recipe for many occasions. Give it a try, and you just might find your new favorite pasta dinner!
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Creamy Cajun Sausage-Style Turkey Pasta Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices. Then pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return the browned turkey sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it up.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Notes
- Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Substitute smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a different creamy twist.
- Swap bell pepper for zucchini, summer squash, or add greens like kale or spinach for more veggies.
- Reduce or omit cayenne pepper to adjust the spiciness to your liking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; add milk or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
