Experience a burst of bold, Southern-inspired flavors with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta recipe. This dish is a delightful combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and creamy pasta sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests.
This pasta recipe is incredibly easy to make, coming together in just 30 minutes. The Cajun seasoning adds the perfect kick, while the creamy sauce balances the spice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you’re craving something indulgent or looking for a standout dish to impress, this recipe has it all.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Full of Flavor: The combination of shrimp, sausage, and Cajun spices is irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with adults and kids alike.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes just as good, if not better, the next day.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
 The Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Âľ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Used
- Large pot for pasta
- Non-stick skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
Directions & Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside.
- Season and Cook the Shrimp: Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sear the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: Melt butter in the skillet. Add diced bell pepper and onion, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Return the cooked shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 680
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Replace shrimp with chicken, scallops, or tofu.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit shrimp and sausage, and add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and paprika to make it milder or spicier.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Add it at the end to warm it through.
Q: What type of sausage works best?
A: Andouille sausage is ideal for its smoky flavor, but any smoked sausage will work.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Perfect Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp; remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Silky Sauce: Whisk Parmesan gradually to avoid clumps in the sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or even a hint of fresh thyme for added aroma.
- Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the Cajun flavors.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot for pasta
- Non-stick skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients Â
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage:
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz smoked sausage sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Âľ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
InstructionsÂ
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside.
- Season and Cook the Shrimp: Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sear the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: Melt butter in the skillet. Add diced bell pepper and onion, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Return the cooked shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a flavorful, comforting meal.