Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
There’s a little seafood place down by the coast that my family and I love to visit whenever we’re on vacation. One of their signature dishes is a creamy Cajun shrimp pasta with sausage, and it’s absolutely unforgettable. I’ve tried to recreate it at home over the years, and I think I’ve finally nailed it. This dish is a perfect blend of spicy, smoky, and creamy flavors, and it’s become a regular in our dinner rotation. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. If you love shrimp, sausage, and a little kick of spice, this pasta is for you.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz smoked sausage (like Andouille), sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.