This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta is a fun dish that packs lots of flavors! Juicy shrimp and smoky sausage are tossed in creamy sauce, making each bite deliciously hearty.
I love how quick this meal is to whip up, perfect for busy nights! Serve it with some garlic bread, and you might just hear your family cheering for seconds! 🍤🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne or fettuccine works best for this dish, but any pasta shape will do. You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you want a healthier option!
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. If you have allergies, you can replace shrimp with more sausage or even chicken.
Smoked Sausage: I love using Andouille sausage for that classic Cajun flavor, but any smoked sausage will work. Turkey sausage is a good lower-fat option if you want something lighter.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or reduced-fat cream. Coconut milk is a delicious dairy-free substitute that changes the flavor a bit but keeps it creamy.
Cajun Seasoning: This is the star of the recipe! If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and dried herbs can make a quick substitute. Adjust the heat according to your liking!
How Do You Get Juicy Shrimp and Sausage?
Cooking shrimp and sausage perfectly is all about timing. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cook the sausage first until it’s browned. This brings out its flavor, so don’t rush it!
- When cooking shrimp, don’t overcook them. They only need about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid extra water in your sauce.
By following these tips, your shrimp will remain tender and your sausage wonderfully smoky. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz (340g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have a warm and creamy Cajun pasta dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until it’s browned and delicious, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp until they’re pink and opaque, which should take about 2 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside with the sausage.
4. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these veggies until they’re softened, around 4-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s all fragrant!
5. Season the Vegetables:
Sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over the sautéed veggies and stir well to combine all those yummy flavors.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream, stirring it all together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce and makes it creamy. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and black pepper to your liking.
8. Combine Shrimp and Sausage:
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet, tossing them to coat with the creamy sauce.
9. Combine with Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together until it’s well combined and heated through.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful creamy Cajun shrimp sausage pasta!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or fettuccine are recommended, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand. Just cook according to package directions for the best results.
What Happens If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, or try using whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for a thicker consistency. Coconut milk also works for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Crushed red pepper flakes can also be sprinkled in to kick up the spice level!
