If you are searching for a comfort food success guaranteed to wow your family and friends, this Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe will be your new go-to. Combining tender chicken, spicy Cajun sausage, and a creamy, cheesy sauce hugged by perfectly cooked pasta, every forkful bursts with bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a cozy one-dish meal that feels indulgent without being complicated, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe so irresistible is how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is. Every element plays a special role, from the smoky Cajun sausage adding a kick of flavor to the cheeses melting into a luxuriously creamy sauce that binds it all together.
- 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta: Choose a sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing—adds subtle richness and helps brown the chicken and sausage.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (bite-sized pieces): Provides lean protein and tender bites.
- 12 ounces Cajun-style smoked sausage (sliced): Brings smoky heat and depth of flavor essential to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and balances the spice.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced): Brings color and a mild, fresh crunch.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Essential aromatic that elevates every savory bite.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: The spice blend that defines the casserole’s bold Cajun character.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances smokiness and adds a warm depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and heightens all flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and rounds out seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Creates the base for the creamy sauce, thickening it perfectly.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Builds flavor and moisture in the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: For a luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharpness and gooey goodness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy pull.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and a subtle nutty finish.
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional): Fresh herbs bring brightness to this hearty casserole.
How to Make Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your choice of penne or rigatoni until al dente. This ensures the pasta provides a tender but firm texture that will hold up beautifully after baking in the casserole. Drain and set aside while you prepare the flavorful components.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt, black pepper, and the Cajun seasoning for that signature spicy kick. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, then remove from the pan and set aside. Don’t rush this step—browning adds wonderful flavor and texture!
Step 3: Sauté Sausage and Veggies
Using the same skillet, add the Cajun sausage slices and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until nicely browned. Next, toss in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these together until they soften and become fragrant, around 4 to 5 minutes. This aromatic base will soak up those smoky sausage flavors, creating an amazing foundation for the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and veggie mixture, stirring well to coat—this helps thicken your sauce as it cooks. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly so no lumps form. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky smooth. Then, mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and luscious, creating the creamy, cheesy heart of this casserole.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to incorporate. Gently fold in the cooked pasta until everything is evenly coated with that irresistible sauce. Transfer this cheesy mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. For extra indulgence, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top before baking uncovered at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and golden on top, beckoning you from the oven.
How to Serve Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh green onions or parsley just before serving brings a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens all the richness of the casserole. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and add a subtle herbal note that balances the creamy, hearty flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls on the side are fantastic for mopping up any leftover cheesy sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual gathering, try serving this Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for personal portions. This makes for a fun and approachable presentation. Alternatively, top with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to spice things up for heat lovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking to save time on busy days. Just assemble it fully in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed, adding 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Reheating
For reheating refrigerated or thawed portions, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings covered loosely with a paper towel for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer less spice, you can swap the Cajun sausage for Italian or smoked sausage varieties. Each will bring a unique flavor twist while keeping the dish delicious and hearty.
Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk and cream blend to reduce fat content. Using part-skim mozzarella and reducing cheese amounts can also lighten the dish without sacrificing too much of its creamy appeal.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just be mindful to check that your seasonings and sausage are gluten-free.
How spicy is this Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe?
The heat level mainly comes from the Cajun seasoning and sausage, which is typically moderately spicy. Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning amount to suit your family’s spice tolerance, increasing it for bold heat or reducing for a milder version.
Can I add vegetables to make it more nutritious?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced mushrooms, chopped spinach, or even some diced zucchini along with the bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them with the onions to maintain that perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe is truly a standout when you want a flavorful, hearty meal that feels like a celebration every time you sit down to eat. It’s approachable enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests, marrying creamy richness with bold Cajun flair. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the cozy, comforting magic of this dish in your own kitchen.
Print
Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired, American
Description
This Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, spicy Cajun sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce blend beautifully with pasta and vegetables, then baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the zest of Cajun seasonings with rich, cheesy indulgence.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces Cajun-style smoked sausage, sliced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the pasta until al dente (firm to the bite), then drain and set aside.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning, then cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add sliced Cajun sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Make the Sauce Base: Sprinkle flour evenly over the sausage and vegetable mixture, stirring to coat everything well.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Melt the Cheeses: Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce turns creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning used.
- You can prepare the casserole ahead and refrigerate before baking. If baking from cold, add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
