Sizzling Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe

Whipping up a delectable cajun shrimp pasta bursts with flavors that dance across your palate like a Louisiana street festival.

Spicy andouille sausage mingles beautifully with plump, succulent shrimp in this irresistible comfort dish.

Bold Creole seasonings infuse every single bite with authentic southern charm.

Creamy sauce coats tender pasta strands, creating a luxurious texture that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

Each forkful promises a perfect balance between heat, richness, and robust ingredients.

Home cooks can easily master this restaurant-quality meal with simple techniques and accessible components.

You’ll fall in love with this crowd-pleasing recipe that brings zesty excitement straight to your dinner table.

Why Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Is a Bold Choice

• Spice Up Your Dinner: Dive into a flavor explosion with Cajun seasoning that transforms ordinary pasta into a zesty, mouth-watering experience.
• Master One-Skillet Magic: Minimize cleanup and maximize taste by cooking everything in a single skillet, from sausage to shrimp to creamy sauce.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust spice levels and swap ingredients to match your family's preferences, making this recipe a versatile crowd-pleaser.
• Protein-Packed Pleasure: Combine succulent shrimp and hearty sausage for a protein-rich meal that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that adds a delicate and succulent texture to the pasta dish.
• Sausage: Hearty meat that provides a rich and smoky flavor to the recipe.

• Onion, Red Bell Pepper: Colorful vegetables that add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• Cajun Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper, Oregano: Spice blend that gives the dish its signature bold and zesty Cajun flavor.
• Olive Oil: Cooking fat that helps to sauté ingredients and prevent sticking.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spicy and savory elements.
• Crushed Tomatoes, Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Liquid ingredients that create a rich and creamy sauce base.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the sauce.

• Fettuccine: Wide, flat pasta that perfectly captures the creamy sauce.

• Parsley: Fresh herb that provides a bright and fresh finishing touch to the dish.

How to Prepare Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

Step 1: Spice Up the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and oregano, making sure each piece gets a delicious coating of flavor.

Step 2: Sizzle the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until perfectly done. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Crisp the Sausage

In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil and cook the sliced sausage until it’s beautifully browned and caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water following package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Drain and keep ready.

Step 5: Sauté the Veggie Medley

• Onion
• Red bell pepper
• Cajun seasoning
• Brown sugar
• Pinch of salt

Cook until the vegetables soften and become tender, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Build the Flavor Base

• Crushed tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream

Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Create the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a rich and smooth consistency.

Step 8: Combine the Elements

Add the cooked fettuccine and browned sausage back to the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the delicious sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 9: Final Touch and Serve

Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, warming them through. Serve the pasta in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

• Customize the spice level by adjusting Cajun seasoning to suit your heat tolerance, ensuring a personalized flavor profile.
• Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect sear and prevent excess moisture during cooking.
• Select high-quality sausage like andouille for an authentic Cajun flavor that enhances the overall dish complexity.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, more melted texture compared to pre-packaged alternatives.
• Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain a slight bite and prevent mushy texture when combined with the creamy sauce.

Variations of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

• Veggie Delight Pasta: Replace shrimp and sausage with grilled zucchini, mushrooms, and roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version that maintains the creamy Cajun flavor profile.
• Chicken Cajun Kick: Swap shrimp and sausage with diced chicken breast, seasoned with extra Cajun spices for a protein-packed alternative that keeps the original recipe's zesty spirit.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Transform the dish by using feta cheese instead of Parmesan, adding kalamata olives, and incorporating fresh spinach for a Mediterranean-inspired variation with a tangy twist.
• Seafood Medley Option: Expand the protein selection by mixing shrimp with scallops and crab meat, creating a rich and luxurious seafood pasta that elevates the original recipe's coastal flavors.

Best Pairings for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

• Savor Spicy Citrus White Wine: A crisp, zesty Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the rich, creamy sauce and complements the Cajun spices, balancing the dish's bold flavors.
• Pair with Crusty Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread helps soak up the delicious sauce and provides a perfect textural contrast to the tender shrimp and pasta.
• Refresh with Cucumber Salad: A light, cool cucumber salad with fresh herbs creates a refreshing side that offsets the dish's spicy and creamy elements, adding a clean, bright note to the meal.
• Cool Down with Beer Pairing: A hoppy craft IPA or a light lager can help temper the Cajun heat while enhancing the dish's complex flavor profile, making each bite more enjoyable.

Storage Tips for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain optimal texture.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, typically taking 4-5 minutes.
• Freeze pasta without shrimp for up to 1 month in freezer-safe containers.

FAQs About Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

• What type of sausage works best in this recipe?

Andouille sausage is the ideal choice for authentic Cajun flavor, but if unavailable, you can substitute with spicy smoked sausage or kielbasa.

• Can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also control heat by choosing a less spicy sausage and adjusting the spice blend to your preference.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses regular fettuccine. To make it gluten-free, substitute the pasta with gluten-free fettuccine or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

• How can I tell if the shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp turns pink and opaque when cooked, and it should form a loose “C” shape.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 30-32 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty Cajun shrimp pasta with sausage combines spicy southern flavors in one irresistible dish. Creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned seafood promise a mouthwatering meal that satisfies your craving for bold, comforting cuisine.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 6 ounces (170 grams) andouille or smoked sausage (thinly sliced)

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1/2 yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 2/3 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients:

• 10 ounces (280 grams) fettuccine pasta
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth (sodium-free)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Marinate shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and oregano, ensuring even coating.
2. Sear shrimp in hot olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes total, cooking until pink and opaque. Transfer to a separate plate.
3. Caramelize sliced sausage in the same skillet until golden brown and crispy, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook fettuccine in heavily salted boiling water until perfectly al dente, following package instructions. Reserve pasta water, then drain.
5. Reduce skillet heat to medium and sauté onions and red bell peppers with Cajun seasoning and brown sugar until vegetables become tender and slightly translucent.
6. Introduce minced garlic and cook until aromatic, then pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Scrape skillet to incorporate browned bits.
7. Simmer sauce and gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
8. Incorporate cooked fettuccine and sausage into the sauce, tossing thoroughly to ensure complete coverage. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.
9. Gently fold in seared shrimp, allowing them to heat without overcooking. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

• Customize the Cajun seasoning intensity by adjusting the amount to suit personal heat preferences, ensuring a balanced flavor profile without overwhelming spiciness.
• Swap protein options seamlessly by substituting shrimp with chicken or using plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist, maintaining the dish’s robust flavor structure.
• Prevent seafood from becoming rubbery by cooking shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly, which guarantees tender and succulent results every time.
• Create a lighter version by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the Parmesan quantity, cutting calories without sacrificing the creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 508 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 175 mg