Name: Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 8 oz spicy andouille sausage, sliced; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 yellow onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; salt and black pepper to taste; chopped parsley for garnish

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If you’re craving something that brings bold flavors, a little bit of heat, and pure comfort in every forkful, this Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s a one-pan wonder where plump shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and colorful veggies mingle in a luxuriously creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. This dish is the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and rich, making it a standout for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, it comes together quickly and easily, so you can have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table in just over half an hour.

Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this dish is how just a handful of well-chosen ingredients can create such an explosion of flavor. Each one has a role to play, from adding heat and color to building that irresistible creamy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Fettuccine or penne pasta (12 oz): Either shape is perfect for capturing all that creamy sauce, so pick your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This helps brown the sausage and shrimp, while adding a subtle richness to the dish.
Spicy andouille sausage (8 oz, sliced): This sausage brings that signature smoky heat and depth to the pasta.
Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Tender, juicy shrimp are a must for that classic Cajun combo and a boost of protein.
Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon, plus more to taste): The heart of the flavor profile, giving you just the right amount of heat and spice.
Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds sweetness and a pop of vibrant color to every bite.
Yellow onion (1/2, sliced): Balances the other flavors with a gentle, savory background note.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aromatic punch to the sauce.
Heavy cream (1 cup): This is what creates the sauce’s rich, silky texture and helps mellow the spices.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce just enough to coat the pasta beautifully.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all the bold flavors.
Chopped parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of freshness to brighten up the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside; you want it ready to go when that luscious sauce comes together. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later!

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the andouille sausage slices and let them sizzle until they’re beautifully browned on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step unlocks all that smoky, spicy flavor and infuses the oil with extra richness.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet with the sausage, then sprinkle on the Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the sausage and shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate so they stay juicy and tender.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

In the same skillet (no need to clean it, all those tasty bits add flavor!), toss in the sliced red bell pepper and onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and just starting to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Taste and add a bit more Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper as needed.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in that creamy, spicy sauce. Let it cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors can meld and the pasta can soak up all that goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle generously with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness. Serve your Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage immediately while it’s hot and creamy, and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage

Garnishes

Finish your pasta with a little extra chopped parsley and a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan for a touch of color and flavor. If you love a little extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top will take things up a notch!

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables to balance out the creamy, spicy richness. Warm, crusty bread is also a must for soaking up every last bit of that Cajun cream sauce—don’t let any go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try serving the Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage in shallow bowls, topped with extra shrimp and a sprig of parsley for that restaurant-style look. Or, serve family-style in a big, colorful serving dish so everyone can help themselves and dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making tomorrow’s lunch even more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage, but keep in mind that the sauce may separate a bit when thawed due to the cream. For the best results, cool the pasta completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your pasta back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth to help revive the sauce. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender and prevent the sauce from breaking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While spicy andouille gives that signature Cajun kick, you can substitute with smoked turkey sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter twist. Adjust the seasoning to match your taste.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat level is customizable! The Cajun seasoning brings most of the spice, so simply use less for a milder dish or add extra if you love things fiery. You can always taste as you go and adjust before serving.

Can I make Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage dairy free?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based creamer, and use a vegan Parmesan-style cheese. The sauce will still be rich and flavorful!

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Fettuccine and penne are classic choices for Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage, but feel free to use any pasta shape you love. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce and mix-ins.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini all make excellent additions and can be sautéed along with the peppers and onions. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and color.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your taste buds and impress your dinner guests, give this Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage a try. It’s easy, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to become a staple in your comfort food rotation. Happy cooking!

Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage Recipe

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4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is a flavorful and satisfying one-pan dish combining tender pasta with a rich, spicy cream sauce, succulent shrimp, and smoky andouille sausage. Perfect for a quick but impressive dinner, this Cajun-inspired meal balances bold spices with creamy textures for a delightful taste experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
8 oz spicy andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
salt and black pepper to taste
chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the fettuccine or penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside for later use.
Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and slightly crisp. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside with the sausage.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced red bell pepper and yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.
Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired, adjusting flavors to taste.
Combine Pasta and Proteins: Return the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta for freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.

Notes

For a lighter variation, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce fat content.
Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
Try smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage as alternative proteins for different flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun