Cajun shrimp and sausage pasta is a flavorful, one-pan dish that combines juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and a creamy, spicy sauce tossed with pasta. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for weeknights or special occasions when you’re craving bold flavors with minimal effort. With its rich seasoning and vibrant ingredients, this pasta dish brings the taste of Louisiana to your table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp and Sausage:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Make the Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine and Toss:
- Return the shrimp, sausage, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cajun shrimp and sausage pasta is creamy, smoky, and packed with a spicy kick. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please your taste buds and become a family favorite!
