This creamy Cajun shrimp sausage pasta is a tasty blend of shrimp and sausage in a rich sauce. It’s got a bit of a kick from Cajun spices and is super comforting!
You know what they say, meals that come together in one pot are a lifesaver! Just cook, stir, and enjoy—no giant mess to clean up. Perfect for busy nights!
I love how this dish is a quick win for dinner. Toss everything together, and in no time, you’re enjoying a delicious plate of pasta that’s bursting with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used penne pasta for its perfect shape to hold onto the sauce. Fettuccine is a great alternative if you prefer something wider. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also work if you’re looking for healthier options.
Smoked Sausage: The smoky flavor really adds depth! If you want a lighter version, turkey sausage is a fantastic substitute. For a vegetarian option, feel free to use plant-based sausage or skip it altogether!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best, but you can also use medium or small shrimp depending on preference and availability. If you’re not a shrimp fan, diced chicken breast is a delicious replacement.
Cajun Seasoning: You can find Cajun seasoning at many stores, but you can also make your own using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. Adjust the spices to your taste for more or less heat!
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s simple once you know what to look for. The key is to not overcook them! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Heat your pan well before adding shrimp. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- Season shrimp just before cooking to enhance their flavor.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque. Pull them off the heat as soon as they’re fully cooked.
Remember, shrimp will continue cooking a little even after they’re off the heat, so it’s best to err on the side of slightly undercooked!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Main Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Cajun shrimp sausage pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the pasta and prepping the ingredients, and 15 minutes to cook everything in the skillet. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until it’s browned and heated through, about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. This adds so much flavor to the dish!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Using the same skillet, add the shrimp. Season them lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the sausage.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the skillet, add the onion and bell pepper. Cook until they’re softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Add the Spices:
Sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper over the veggies. Stir everything together to mix the flavors.
6. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This is where all the flavors blend beautifully!
7. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked sausage and shrimp back into the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it heat through for about 2 minutes.
8. Toss in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is nicely coated with the creamy sauce.
9. Season and Serve:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your creamy Cajun shrimp sausage pasta—every bite is a delicious adventure!
FAQ for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you’re using for the best results.
What If I Can’t Find Smoked Sausage?
If smoked sausage isn’t available, you can substitute it with turkey sausage or any cooked sausage you prefer. You can also omit it entirely for a lighter dish or use cooked chicken for added protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens up.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! Feel free to increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. You can also add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the spice level!
