Get ready to delight your taste buds with this irresistible Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe! Bursting with smoky sausage, tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant veggies, this dish blends bold Cajun spices with comforting pasta to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or something to impress your family and friends, this casserole hits all the right notes with its perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe so delicious? It’s all about using a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients that each add a unique layer of flavor, richness, and color to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing chicken and vegetables with a touch of fruity richness.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Dice these for lean protein that soaks up the Cajun seasoning beautifully.
- Smoked Cajun Sausage: Adds a spicy, smoky kick and hearty texture to complement the chicken.
- Cajun Seasoning: The star spice blend that infuses the casserole with its bold, zesty character.
- Yellow Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness when sautéed, balancing out the spice.
- Red Bell Pepper: Offers vibrant color and a fresh, mildly sweet crunch.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
- Penne Pasta: The ideal sturdy pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce and chunky ingredients.
- Chicken Broth: Infuses the sauce with savory undertones and keeps it moist.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth, rich sauce that binds everything together.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds tanginess and a gentle heat, boosting flavor complexity.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy bliss over the casserole’s surface.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Delivers a bold, tangy kick that balances the creaminess.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every element.
- Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous finish that adds a pop of green and freshness.
How to Make Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing your casserole dish—this ensures your masterpiece won’t stick and makes cleanup easier. Then cook the penne pasta just shy of al dente, as the noodles will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set them aside, so they’re ready to soak up all the creamy Cajun goodness later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Sausage
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken breasts and season them with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook for around 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken turns golden and is cooked through. Remove and set aside. Next, cook the sliced smoked Cajun sausage in the same skillet for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s lightly browned and fragrant. Keep it with the chicken for later.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies and Build the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped yellow onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and aromatic. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, the remaining Cajun seasoning, and the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together and let it gently simmer so those bold flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Proteins, and Sauce
Return the par-cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet with your simmering sauce. Toss everything until it’s evenly coated, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. This step is where your casserole truly comes to life, with every bite promising a mix of creaminess, spice, and a perfect hint of smoky meatiness.
Step 5: Bake Your Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish in an even layer. Generously top it with shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese. Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly. For that irresistible golden crust, switch your oven to broil for a few minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes once out of the oven before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.
How to Serve Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a simple but effective way to add a burst of color and a touch of herbal brightness to your plate. If you want to elevate the presentation further, try adding some sliced green onions or even a dash of smoked paprika for extra visual and flavor appeal.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which balances the richness with fresh, tangy notes. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are fantastic options too, soaking up any extra sauce and rounding out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in mini cast-iron skillets or individual ramekins to highlight personal portions. You could also jazz it up by layering in extra cheese between pasta and meats for a gooier, more decadent experience. Turning this into a buffet-style dish lets everyone customize with their favorite toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. This Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze portions of this casserole. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, making sure to label with the date. Frozen casserole lasts well for up to 2 months, allowing you a speedy homemade meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or cream if the pasta feels dry. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results, then follow the same warming directions to keep the flavors and textures just right.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. The key is choosing a pasta shape that captures the creamy sauce well.
Is the Cajun seasoning very spicy?
Cajun seasoning has a nice kick but isn’t overwhelmingly hot. If you prefer milder flavors, start with less seasoning and adjust to taste as you cook.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter casserole, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Adding a bit of cream cheese can help keep the texture velvety.
What’s the best way to dice the chicken for even cooking?
Cut the chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized cubes about 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and remain tender rather than drying out during sautéing.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Omit the chicken and sausage, and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also add plant-based sausage substitutes to keep the flavor profile similar.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe has quickly become a personal favorite for its bold flavors, creamy texture, and ease of preparation. It’s the kind of dish that comforts you and excites your palate all at once. I can’t wait for you to try making it—your family and friends are going to love it, guaranteed!
Print
Loaded Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole is a flavorful, hearty baked dish combining tender chicken, smoky Cajun sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top. It’s the perfect comforting meal for a family dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Protein & Meat
- 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Diced
- 12 oz Smoked Cajun Sausage, Sliced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, Chopped
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper, Chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, Minced
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
- 10 oz Penne Pasta
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (10 oz)
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
Dairy
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large casserole or baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil penne pasta according to package instructions until just shy of al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to stop cooking further.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and sprinkle with half of the Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Sausage: Using the same skillet, add sliced Cajun sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove sausage and set aside with chicken.
- Sauté Vegetables: Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Return cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole or baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place casserole in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy cheese crust.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm for best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta initially; it will continue to cook in the oven and absorb flavors.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning.
- Use a baking dish size around 9×13 inches for optimal layering and cooking.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a beautiful golden crust to the cheese topping.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
