🍤 Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: A Creamy Cajun-Inspired Classic 🌭🍝
Looking for a hearty, bold, and satisfying de
dish that comes together in under an hour? This Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is packed with smoky sausage, juicy shrimp, tender veggies, and a luscious cream sauce that clings beautifully to penne or your favorite pasta. It’s rich, comforting, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more!
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 smoked sausages, sliced (Andouille for extra kick!)
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Sausage & Shrimp
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Sauté the sliced sausage until browned, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the shrimp with a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Set aside with sausage.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Build the Creamy Sauce
- Lower heat to medium-low.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Season with paprika, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt & pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into a smooth, velvety sauce.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the shrimp and sausage to the pan, along with the cooked pasta.
- Toss everything together until fully coated in the sauce and heated through.
- Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Top with chopped fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, smoky bite!
⏱️ Recipe Recap:
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories: ~620 kcal per serving
🔥 Pro Tips:
- Use Andouille sausage for an authentic Cajun flavor boost.
- Want a lighter version? Substitute half-and-half for cream.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
🥄 Why You’ll Love It:
✅ One-pan flavor bomb
✅ Perfect for meal prep
✅ Family-friendly with just the right spice
✅ Creamy, dreamy, and totally comforting
💬 Have leftovers? This pasta reheats beautifully with a splash of milk or broth.
📸 Don’t forget to snap a pic and tag #ShrimpSausagePasta on Instagram — we’d love to see your creation!
