Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta Recipe

Irresistibly Creamy Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta Recipe

Comfort meets indulgence in this mouthwatering cheesy shrimp, sausage & bacon pasta that promises pure culinary bliss.

Seafood and smoky meat lovers will instantly fall in love with this incredible combination.

Each forkful delivers a symphony of rich, bold flavors dancing across your palate.

Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, while succulent shrimp and hearty sausage create depth and excitement.

Melted cheese blankets every inch of pasta, ensuring maximum satisfaction in each bite.

Salt and pepper become magical ingredients that amplify the dish’s incredible potential.

You won’t be able to resist diving into this irresistible masterpiece that screams pure deliciousness.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Pack the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months, keeping in mind that the texture of shrimp and pasta might slightly change upon thawing.
  • Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.

FAQs on Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

  • Is this dish suitable for a big family gathering?

This pasta is perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s hearty, packed with protein from shrimp, sausage, and bacon, and can easily be scaled up to serve more people.

  • Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe works great with traditional pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni, you can experiment with fettuccine, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.

  • How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild flavor profile. If you want more heat, you can add red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage to increase the kick.

  • Is this recipe budget-friendly?

While shrimp can be pricier, using a mix of affordable proteins like bacon and sausage helps balance the overall cost. You can also adjust quantities to fit your budget.

Why Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta Is a Must-Try

  • Maximize Flavor Fusion: Combining shrimp, sausage, and bacon creates an incredible taste explosion that brings multiple protein textures and rich flavors into one delightful dish.
  • Master One-Skillet Magic: Prepare the entire meal using just one pan, reducing cleanup time and simplifying the cooking process for home chefs who want minimal kitchen hassle.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust protein quantities or swap ingredients based on personal preferences, making this recipe flexible for different taste buds and dietary needs.
  • Impress Without Stress: Looks gourmet and complex but actually requires basic cooking skills, perfect for home cooks wanting to create restaurant-quality meals without advanced culinary training.

Ingredients for Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

Protein Base:
  • Shrimp: A succulent seafood that adds delicate flavor and tender texture to the pasta dish.
  • Bacon: A crispy, savory meat that provides rich and smoky notes to the recipe.
  • Sausage: A hearty meat that contributes robust and spicy flavor to the overall dish.
Dairy and Cheese:
  • Heavy Cream: A rich and creamy base that creates a smooth and luxurious sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: A mild and melty cheese that provides a smooth and stretchy texture.
Pasta and Seasonings:
  • Pasta: A classic carbohydrate that serves as the foundation of the dish.
  • Olive Oil: A versatile cooking oil that helps sauté ingredients and add subtle flavor.
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that provide a foundational flavor profile.
  • Dried Basil, Dried Oregano: Herbs that contribute Mediterranean-inspired seasoning.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright and fresh herb used as a garnish to add color and subtle flavor.

How to Cook Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the pasta into the water and cook until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Crisp Up the Bacon and Sausage

Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until it turns golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. In the same skillet, brown the sliced sausage until it develops a beautiful caramelized exterior. Remove and set aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Sizzle the Seafood

Using the same skillet with all those delicious meaty drippings, add the shrimp. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they transform into a vibrant pink color and become perfectly opaque. Transfer the shrimp to the plate with the bacon and sausage.

Step 4: Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Sauté the chopped onion in the skillet until it becomes soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aromatic flavors. Pour in the rich heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in:
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella

Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely, creating a smooth and luxurious sauce.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Introduce the cooked pasta, crispy bacon, browned sausage, and succulent shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything to ensure each ingredient is generously coated with the creamy cheese sauce. Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture heat through for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the sauce is creamy.

Pro Tips for Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

  • Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure crispy, golden edges and prevent watery texture.
  • Choose high-quality smoked sausage for deeper flavor complexity in the dish.
  • Reserve some pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency if needed, helping create silky smooth sauce.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for richer, more authentic taste.
  • For lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and reduce cheese quantity slightly.

Flavor Variations of Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

  • Seafood Medley Pasta: Replace shrimp with a mix of crab, scallops, and mussels for a luxurious ocean-inspired dish.
  • Spicy Cajun Version: Add Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and andouille sausage for a fiery New Orleans-style flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Comfort: Swap meat and seafood with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and plant-based sausage crumbles for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
  • Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, and swap mozzarella for crumbled feta cheese to create a Greek-inspired variation.

Pairing Ideas for Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

  • Pair Hearty Red Wine: Select a robust Zinfandel or Syrah that complements the rich, meaty flavors of bacon and sausage while cutting through the creamy cheese sauce.
  • Create Crisp Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with tangy vinaigrette and toasted pine nuts to provide a refreshing contrast against the heavy, decadent pasta dish.
  • Match Crusty Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread with herbs to soak up the delicious cheese sauce and add a complementary texture to the meal.
  • Recommend Light Beer Pairing: Choose a crisp pilsner or wheat beer that helps cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, savory pasta.
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Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta Recipe

Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Irresistible cheesy shrimp, sausage & bacon pasta brings classic comfort to dinner tables with bold flavors and creamy indulgence. Seafood lovers will crave this hearty Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines rich proteins and silky sauce for a memorable meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 lb bacon, chopped

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Base and Seasonings:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge pasta and cook until perfectly tender, about 8-10 minutes. Carefully drain and reserve.
  2. Activate a large skillet over medium-high heat with a whisper of olive oil. Render bacon pieces until gloriously crisp and golden, extracting them with a perforated utensil. Without cleaning the skillet, introduce sausage slices and caramelize until rich brown edges emerge.
  3. Transfer sausage alongside bacon. Within the same fragrant pan, introduce shrimp and sear approximately 2 minutes per side, transforming them into translucent coral specimens.
  4. Reduce heat and welcome diced onions, sweating them until translucent. Incorporate minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to bloom for 60 seconds. Stream heavy cream, initiating a gentle simmer. Gradually melt Parmesan and mozzarella until a velvety sauce materializes.
  5. Reunite pasta, proteins, and sauce in a harmonious dance. Sprinkle dried herbs, salt, and cracked pepper. Gently fold ingredients, warming thoroughly for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Cascade fresh parsley across the surface. Serve piping hot, immediately presenting a symphony of textures and flavors.

Notes

  • Customize protein choices by swapping shrimp with chicken or using plant-based sausage for vegetarian alternatives.
  • Control sodium levels by using low-sodium bacon and reducing added salt, perfect for heart-conscious diners.
  • Make the dish gluten-free by substituting regular pasta with zucchini noodles or certified gluten-free pasta varieties.
  • Elevate leftover potential by storing sauce separately and reheating gently to prevent cheese separation and maintain creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 497 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 625 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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