If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and irresistible creaminess, look no further than the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe. This soul-warming meal brings together tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta all coated in a luscious, spicy cream sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a Cajun twist that balances heat, richness, and a touch of sweetness, making it an unforgettable dish to share with loved ones or simply enjoy on a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe plays a vital role, contributing fresh layers of flavor and captivating textures. From the smoky sausage adding depth to the vibrant veggies infusing color and sweetness, these simple essentials combine beautifully to create a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that soaks up the seasoning and cooks quickly for tender bites.
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning all components and highlighting natural flavors.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning: Brings authentic spices and warmth to the shrimp and sauce.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy herbal note that balances the heat.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for cooking the shrimp and sausage.
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced: Offers smoky richness and a satisfying bite.
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta: A perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce and mix of ingredients.
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a gentle onion flavor when sautéed.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Contributes vibrant color and a natural sweetness.
- 4 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning: Intensifies the dish’s signature spice in the sauce and veggies.
- 1 tsp brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the spices.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped: Boosts aroma and flavor depth.
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes: Adds acidity and a rustic texture to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth, sodium-free: Creates a flavorful, savory foundation for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and rich.
- â…” cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by tossing your large shrimp with kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and dried oregano. This simple seasoning blend sets the stage for the shrimp to carry that signature Cajun punch and ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side. You want them perfectly pink and just cooked through, as overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside to keep them tender and juicy.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
In the same skillet, add thinly sliced andouille or smoked sausage. Cook until browned and flavorful, about 4 to 5 minutes. The sausage brings a beautiful smoky depth that perfectly complements the shrimp and creamy sauce. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta until al dente, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside, ready to soak up the delicious sauce.
Step 5: Sauté Vegetables and Build Flavor
Return to the skillet and sauté the thinly sliced yellow onion and red bell pepper with 4 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. This step softens the veggies and allows the Cajun spices to bloom, creating a vibrant and slightly sweet base. Toss in the minced garlic last and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to marry the flavors. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese to thicken and enrich the sauce, turning it into that silky, comforting coating you want on every forkful.
Step 7: Combine All Ingredients
Return the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together in the sauce so the pasta gets perfectly coated, and the protein and veggies share their magic. Let it all cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully into one cohesive dish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish your masterpiece by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a bright, fresh note and gorgeous color that makes the dish feel complete and inviting. Serve hot and watch how quickly this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe disappears from the table.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped parsley is a classic option to brighten the dish visually and taste-wise. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a light drizzle of olive oil to enhance the creaminess. If you like a bit more kick, a few red pepper flakes on top work wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs well with simple green salads dressed in a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crispy garlic bread or crusty French bread is also a fantastic companion for mopping up every bit of the sauce. For a more substantial meal, steamed green beans or sautéed spinach bring fresh greens to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dinner, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful shrimp and sausage nestled in the creamy sauce. Garnish with a lemon wedge on the side for an optional citrus burst. If entertaining, offer the sauce and pasta components separately, letting guests customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making reheated portions just as enjoyable. Store the pasta and sauce together to preserve the creaminess.
Freezing
While shrimp and pasta dishes don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this recipe carefully by cooking shrimp just until opaque and undercooking the pasta slightly before assembling. Portion out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and maintain creaminess. Alternatively, microwave leftovers in short bursts, stirring in between to distribute heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal for holding the sauce, other pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or rigatoni can be delicious substitutes depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is andouille sausage necessary?
Andouille sausage lends that smoky Cajun character, but you can substitute with smoked kielbasa, chorizo, or even a milder smoked sausage. Each will bring a unique flavor twist to the dish.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by changing the amount or type of Cajun seasoning you use. For less heat, reduce the seasoning or use a mild Creole blend. For an extra kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Make sure to verify that your Cajun seasoning and sausage are gluten-free as well to keep it safe.
What can I do if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half mixed with a bit of butter or full-fat coconut milk as alternatives. The sauce won’t be as thick but will still be deliciously creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, packed with bold flavors that satisfy every craving. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s simple to make yet impressive in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of this comforting, flavorful meal with your friends and family.
Print
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and tender fettuccine pasta all tossed in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe offers bold spices balanced by a creamy tomato and Parmesan sauce, garnished with fresh parsley for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
- ½ tsp dried oregano
Other Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2–3 cloves garlic, chopped
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth, sodium-free
- 1 cup heavy cream
- â…” cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp: Toss the shrimp with kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and dried oregano until the shrimp are evenly coated, preparing them for cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced andouille or smoked sausage. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the skillet, add the sliced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Season with 4 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the vegetables are softened. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sodium-free chicken broth, and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together in the creamy Cajun sauce and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld harmoniously.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with the chopped parsley for freshness and serve the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta hot.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, consider adding extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Fresh parsley enhances the flavor, but you can use dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Andouille sausage can be substituted with any smoked sausage if not available.
