The Best Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe That Sizzles with Flavor

Pasta nights reach new heights with this mouthwatering cajun pasta that brings explosive flavor to your dinner table.

Spicy, rich, and loaded with creamy cajun pasta recipe magic, every bite promises a culinary adventure.

Southern-style cooking meets comfort food in this irresistible dish that dances between heat and smoothness.

Robust seasonings blend seamlessly with tender pasta and a velvety sauce that coats each noodle perfectly.

Weeknight dinners transform from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few simple ingredients and bold spices.

You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together, delivering restaurant-quality taste right in your kitchen.

Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of louisiana with each delectable forkful.

FAQs

• How spicy is this Cajun Pasta?

The seasoning can be adjusted by reducing or increasing cayenne pepper. For mild heat, use just a pinch; for extra spiciness, add more cayenne or include red pepper flakes.

• Can I use different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, andouille sausage, or even plant-based protein like tofu work perfectly with the Cajun seasoning blend.

• Do I need any special ingredients for this recipe?

Most ingredients are common pantry staples. The key is the Cajun seasoning mix, which you can make from scratch or buy pre-mixed from grocery stores.

Creamy Cajun Pasta—Why It’s So Tasty

• Enjoy a bold, zesty Cajun flavor that transforms an ordinary meal into a restaurant-worthy experience with minimal cooking skills required.
• Prepare a complete one-skillet dinner that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal planning.
• Delivers creamy, hearty goodness that appeals to both adults and kids, with customizable spice levels to suit everyone's taste preferences.
• Uses just one skillet, reducing dishwashing time and making post-dinner cleanup a breeze for home cooks seeking convenience.

Creamy Cajun Pasta Ingredients

• Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor to the Cajun seasoning.
• Oregano: Provides an earthy and slightly bitter herb note.
• Thyme: Contributes a minty and slightly lemony herb essence.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a concentrated garlic flavor without fresh garlic chunks.
• Onion Powder: Adds a sweet and savory onion taste.
• Cayenne: Delivers a spicy kick to the Cajun seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Introduces a sharp and warm spiciness.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor profile.

• Chicken: The main protein that absorbs the Cajun seasoning and provides substance to the dish.

• Oil, Butter: Help in cooking the chicken and creating a rich, flavorful base.

• Onion, Green Onions: Add sweetness, depth, and fresh garnish to the pasta.
• Tomatoes: Provide acidity and moisture to the pasta sauce.

• Pasta: The main carbohydrate that serves as the foundation of the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid for the pasta.

• Cream Cheese: Melts to create a rich, smooth, and creamy sauce.

Equipment Needed for Creamy Cajun Pasta

• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing Cajun seasoning ingredients.
• Large skillet: Essential for cooking chicken, onions, and pasta.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping chicken and green onions.
• Sharp knife: Required for cutting chicken into cubes and slicing green onions.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients during cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Helpful for accurately measuring seasoning ingredients.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Pasta

Step 1: Whip Up Cajun Spice Blend

Grab a small bowl and mix together smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Prep Protein Perfection

Slice chicken into bite-sized cubes.

Generously coat each piece with the homemade Cajun seasoning, ensuring every morsel is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Sizzle the Chicken

Warm a large skillet with a combination of oil and butter.

Gently place seasoned chicken pieces into the hot pan, cooking until each side turns a beautiful golden brown with crispy edges.

Step 4: Saute Aromatic Onions

Toss diced onions into the skillet with the browned chicken.

Let them dance and soften for about 2 minutes, releasing their sweet, tangy aroma.

Step 5: Build the Pasta Base

• Pasta
• Diced tomatoes with their juices
• Chicken broth

Stir everything together, creating a vibrant, flavorful mixture.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat.

Cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Occasionally stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Wait until the pasta becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Step 7: Cream and Garnish

Stir in cream cheese until it melts completely, creating a luxuriously smooth sauce.

Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, zesty finish.

Serve immediately and enjoy your Creamy Cajun Pasta!

Creamy Cajun Pasta Tips and Tricks

• Mix Cajun spices in advance and store in an airtight container for quick, easy meal prep anytime.
• Adjust cayenne pepper amount to make the dish milder or spicier based on your heat tolerance.
• Swap chicken with shrimp, sausage, or plant-based alternatives for diverse meal options.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, faster melting and more consistent sauce.
• Slice chicken into uniform small cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent seasoning coverage.

Cajun Pasta—Flavor Combos to Try

• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using the same Cajun seasoning and cooking method for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta like rice or chickpea pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream for a lactose-free, creamy texture.
• Seafood Variation: Swap chicken with shrimp or crawfish for a classic Cajun-style seafood pasta experience.

Plating Creamy Cajun Pasta

• Rustic Family Feast: Serve this zesty pasta directly from the skillet for a cozy, comforting dinner experience that feels like a warm hug.
• Spicy Side Show: Pair with a crisp green salad topped with cucumber slices and a light vinaigrette to balance the rich, bold Cajun flavors.
• Protein Power-Up: Add extra protein by sprinkling crumbled bacon or grilled shrimp on top for a hearty meal that satisfies hungry appetites.
• Wine Companion: Choose a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, spicy pasta and cut through its richness.

Storing Creamy Cajun Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the pasta remains fresh and tasty.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Pasta will maintain quality for up to 2 months when properly sealed.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring midway.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir gently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.

Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Indulgent cajun pasta brings spicy southern comfort to your dinner table. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold spices combine for a memorable meal that satisfies deeply.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (0.45 kg) boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 oz (57 g) cream cheese

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 1/2 lb (0.23 kg) penne pasta
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 15 oz (425 g) fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth

Seasonings and Oils:

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

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Instructions

1. Combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small mixing bowl to create the Cajun seasoning blend.
2. Cut chicken into uniform small cubes and generously coat each piece with the prepared Cajun seasoning mixture.
3. Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding oil and butter. Sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes.
4. Introduce diced onions to the skillet, sautéing until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to distribute ingredients evenly.
6. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a rapid boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure pasta cooks uniformly.
7. Remove from heat and incorporate cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
8. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Customize spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper quantity for those sensitive to heat.
• Swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or plant-based protein for versatile meal options.
• Use gluten-free pasta to transform this recipe into a celiac-friendly dish.
• Consider reducing cream cheese for a lighter version while maintaining creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg