This Easy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta is a flavor-packed dish full of shrimp, spicy sausage, and creamy goodness. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that makes you feel fancy!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip this up on a busy night. I love it when my pasta looks and tastes great but takes just a little effort. It’s a weeknight winner! 🍤🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for penne because its shape holds the sauce perfectly. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use chickpea or rice pasta. Fusilli or rotini also work well!
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen works too! Just thaw them in cold water. If you don’t have shrimp, chicken or firm tofu can be good substitutes.
Smoked Sausage: Andouille is amazing for that Cajun kick, but you can use any smoked sausage like Kielbasa. For a healthier option, turkey sausage is a good substitute.
Cajun Seasoning: You can make your own Cajun seasoning with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and some herbs if you don’t have ready-made. Adjust the heat to your liking!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be a tricky balance. Here’s how to get it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot but not smoking. Adding shrimp too early will make them steam instead of sear.
- Cook over medium heat for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They cook fast, so stay close!
- Remove them from the skillet right away to prevent overcooking, which makes them rubbery.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, enhancing your Cajun dish’s taste and texture!
Easy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or your favorite pasta
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1-2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy option for weeknight dinners that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook it until browned, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. The aromas will start to fill your kitchen!
4. Add Garlic and Shrimp:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp into the skillet, seasoning them with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remember to watch them closely to avoid overcooking!
5. Make the Sauce:
Once the shrimp are cooked, return the browned sausage to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, which will help meld all those delicious flavors together.
6. Add Cheese and Pasta:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened, around 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the rich sauce.
7. Finish and Serve:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty flavor!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and spicy Cajun shrimp sausage pasta! It’s sure to impress your family or guests!
FAQ for Easy Cajun Shrimp Sausage Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat dry before adding them to the skillet for better searing.
How Can I Spice it Up More?
If you like it extra spicy, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper in the recipe. Consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking for an additional kick!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to maintain a creamy consistency. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk, though it will add a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
