Vegan Cajun Pasta Recipe – Quick & Easy

If you’re craving bold flavors and creamy, spicy comfort food, look no further than this vegan Cajun pasta recipe.

With a perfect blend of smoky spices, fresh vegetables, and rich plant-based creaminess, this dish satisfies the palate while staying completely dairy- and meat-free.

Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe!

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this vibrant, spicy, and creamy vegan Cajun pasta:

For the Cajun Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (about half a pound) of your favorite pasta (penne or fettuccine works great)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk (for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (adds a “cheesy” flavor)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning

Creating your own Cajun seasoning not only makes this dish stand out, but it also lets you control the spice level.

Simply mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.

Set this blend aside — you’ll use it to coat the vegetables and add flavor to the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture.

Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook a bit once you add it to the sauce. Drain the pasta, then set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).

The aromatic base of onions and garlic creates the foundation for this savory, comforting dish.

Once the onions soften, add the sliced bell peppers and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle about half of the Cajun seasoning over the veggies.

Continue to cook for 5–6 minutes until the bell peppers soften and the tomatoes start to release their juices, creating a natural sweetness that balances the spicy flavors.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce

After the vegetables have softened, pour in the coconut milk (or almond milk) and vegetable broth.

These liquids form the base of the creamy sauce that makes this pasta dish so indulgent and satisfying.

For a hint of cheesy flavor without dairy, stir in the nutritional yeast. Sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning into the sauce, adjusting to taste.

Let the sauce simmer for about 5–8 minutes. As it heats, the sauce will begin to thicken, developing a luscious, creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the skillet. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring well to ensure every piece is coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.

Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The pasta will soak up some of the sauce, giving it a richer flavor and making it ultra-satisfying.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the pasta has absorbed some of the sauce and everything looks perfectly coated, remove the skillet from the heat.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. You can also add a sprinkle of extra nutritional yeast on top for added cheesy flavor.

Tips for the Best Vegan Cajun Pasta

• Adjust the Spice: Control the heat level by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning. For a milder dish, reduce the cayenne, or omit it entirely.
• Experiment with Milk Alternatives: Coconut milk provides the richest, creamiest sauce, but almond or soy milk works if you prefer a lighter sauce. Just make sure to choose unsweetened varieties.
• Use Different Veggies: Feel free to get creative by adding mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini. This pasta is highly adaptable, and other veggies will only enhance the dish.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without compromising flavor.
  

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While this is an approximation, here’s a general idea of the nutritional benefits in a serving of this vegan Cajun pasta:

• Calories: Approximately 400–450 kcal
• Protein: 10–12 grams (depending on pasta choice)
• Fat: 15–18 grams
• Carbohydrates: 60 grams
• Fiber: 8–10 grams
• Vitamins: A, C (thanks to bell peppers and tomatoes)
  

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cajun Pasta

This vegan Cajun pasta is a testament to the fact that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying and indulgent as traditional comfort food.

The smoky, spicy Cajun flavors pair beautifully with the creamy coconut milk and savory nutritional yeast, creating a harmonious blend that’s rich, flavorful, and nutritious.

This dish provides an impressive amount of flavor and depth without using any animal products, making it perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to try a meatless meal with a kick.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or someone experimenting with plant-based recipes, this pasta hits all the right notes. It’s easy, packed with vegetables, and offers a wonderful texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Serve it for a cozy family dinner or a meal to impress friends, and watch as this dish becomes a regular part of your weekly menu rotation.

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