Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
If you’re searching for a hearty, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a cozy night in New Orleans, you’ve met your match with this Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe. Creamy, spicy, and loaded with juicy shrimp and smoky sausage, this one-pan wonder is the ultimate comfort food that’s shockingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re craving something impressive for guests or just a quick weeknight treat, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe is how it uses everyday ingredients that work together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component is essential, from the rich, creamy sauce to the bold Cajun spices—so let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.
- Pasta: Fettuccine or penne both capture the creamy sauce perfectly, but any shape you love will work!
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing sausage and shrimp, helping everything brown beautifully.
- Andouille sausage: This spicy, smoky sausage brings authentic Cajun flavor and a satisfying bite to the dish.
- Shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined): Juicy and tender, shrimp are the star protein that soak up every bit of seasoning.
- Cajun seasoning: The magic blend that delivers bold heat and signature Louisiana flavor—adjust to your taste!
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create an ultra-luxurious sauce.
- Garlic (minced): A must for depth and aroma, garlic ties the whole sauce together.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce creamy and decadent without feeling heavy.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Brings salty, nutty notes and melts perfectly into the sauce.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color to the cream sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Simple but essential—season to taste for a perfectly balanced bite.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A burst of color and freshness to finish each bowl beautifully.
How to Make Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your fettuccine or penne. Cook until al dente, following the package instructions for the perfect texture—just tender, but still with a little bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you build the rest of the dish. This step ensures your pasta is ready and waiting to soak up all that luscious Cajun cream sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the sliced andouille sausage. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is golden and caramelized. This step wakes up the spices in the sausage and brings out their smoky depth. Scoop the sausage out and set it aside—don’t worry, it’ll be back soon!
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and sprinkle them with Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and curled. The shrimp will pick up all the tasty bits left behind by the sausage and get infused with that signature Cajun heat. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the sausage.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Now for the sauce! Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, but don’t let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. This is where the magic happens—the sauce becomes rich, silky, and ready to cling to every noodle.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Paprika
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it even creamier, while the paprika adds color and a hint of smokiness. Taste and season with a pinch of salt and pepper—it’s all about building those layers of flavor!
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage back into the skillet. Toss everything together until each strand of pasta is luxuriously coated in the Cajun cream sauce and every bite gets some sausage and shrimp. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a little extra broth or pasta water. Now, you’re ready to serve the Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe piping hot!
How to Serve Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color. Add an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese or even a few red pepper flakes if you like things spicy. The vibrant green against the creamy sauce makes every plate look restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
This creamy, spicy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. The cool crunch of salad balances out the heat, while bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce. For a true Cajun feast, serve with a side of sautéed okra or corn on the cob.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe in a big family-style bowl, letting everyone help themselves. For a special touch, twirl individual portions into neat nests and top each with a shrimp and a sprig of parsley. Or, for a fun twist, serve it in shallow bowls with a lemon wedge for a zesty squeeze right before eating!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this dish are a dream! Store any remaining Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld together, making every reheated bite even more delicious.
Freezing
While the pasta and sauce can be frozen, keep in mind that cream sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. If you do freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and enjoy within 1 to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to a skillet and warm the pasta gently over medium-low heat, stirring often. This brings the creamy sauce back to life and keeps everything silky. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to distribute the heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While andouille sausage gives the most authentic Cajun flavor, you can swap in smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different twist. Just be sure to choose something with a bit of spice for that signature kick.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe has a pleasant warmth thanks to Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage, but you can easily adjust the heat. For a milder version, use less Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder sausage. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes!
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this creamy Cajun dish worry-free with the right pasta swap.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Add a bit more Parmesan cheese to help thicken and enrich the sauce if needed.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms make great additions to the Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe. Sauté them after the sausage for extra color, nutrition, and flavor right in the same pan.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the bold, creamy, and downright irresistible flavors in this Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just treating yourself, this dish brings a taste of the bayou right to your table. Give it a try, and let this recipe become a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a flavorful and creamy dish combining tender shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich Cajun cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal with a delicious Cajun-American flair.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 8 oz andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasoning and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the fettuccine or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
- Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the cream mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika into the sauce, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and well combined.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use spicy andouille sausage for extra heat or mild if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- This dish reheats well for leftovers.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 225mg
