If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting creaminess, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe. It’s everything you want in a meal—a harmonious blend of succulent shrimp and smoky sausage swimming in a luscious, spicy sauce, all tossed with tender fettuccine. This dish is perfectly balanced with bright vegetables and that irresistible cheesy finish, making it an absolute showstopper for any weeknight dinner or special gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the secret to making this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe unforgettable. Each element plays a vital role, from the spicy kick of the Cajun seasoning to the creamy richness of the sauce, plus fresh veggies that add color and texture.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for juicy, tender bites.
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer of this dish.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning: Adds the distinctive smoky, spicy flavor that defines this recipe.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Offers a subtle earthy undertone to the shrimp.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and locking in flavors.
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced: Brings smoky depth and richness.
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta: The perfect long pasta for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: For a burst of color and subtle sweetness.
- 4 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning: More spice to kick up the sautéed veggies and sauce.
- 1 tsp brown sugar: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped: For aromatic depth and character.
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes: Adds a tangy base to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth, sodium-free: Keeps the sauce flavorful without overpowering.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star of that rich, velvety sauce.
- â…” cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings umami and melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped: A fresh, vibrant finish to brighten every bite.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by tossing your shrimp with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and dried oregano. This simple seasoning step ensures every shrimp is packed with flavor before hitting the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the shrimp and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking for maximum juiciness. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, so you can use that flavorful oil for the sausage.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced andouille or smoked sausage. Cook until it’s beautifully browned and slightly crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This caramelization adds incredible depth that will elevate your pasta. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside with the shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While finishing up the proteins, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta until al dente—meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Drain and set aside but keep a little pasta water handy just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables
Back to the skillet! Using the flavorful drippings, sauté the thinly sliced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sprinkle in 4 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the heat with subtle sweetness. Cook the veggies until softened and vibrant, about 5 minutes. Add chopped garlic last, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant. This step fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Pour in ½ cup crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of sodium-free chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens up slightly. Finally, stir in ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt beautifully and add a rich, savory layer to your sauce.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Return the cooked fettuccine, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, allowing the pasta to soak up that luscious sauce while the shrimp and sausage infuse their smoky and spicy notes throughout. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes for a seamless flavor marriage.
Step 8: Serve
Once everything is gloriously combined and bubbly, your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe is ready to be plated and enjoyed!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a simple yet brilliant garnish that adds a bright pop of color and freshness, complementing the richness of the dish perfectly. For a little extra kick, a dusting of more grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice can make each bite even more vibrant.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty French bread is also a wonderful companion, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautifully rustic presentation, serve the pasta directly from the skillet, letting guests help themselves. Or, plate it neatly twirled into nests for an elegant touch. Add a lemon wedge on the side for a little zesty option that guests can squeeze over their serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after resting, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This pasta freezes fairly well—place leftovers in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp and sausage might change slightly after freezing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and perfect for clinging to the creamy sauce, feel free to swap in penne, linguine, or even rigatoni depending on what you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and sausage, and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or smoked tofu for a similar smoky and satisfying experience.
How spicy is this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe?
The level of spice can be adjusted based on the amount of Cajun seasoning you use. The recipe as written has a pleasant kick but isn’t overwhelmingly hot, so you can tweak it to your taste by adding more or less seasoning.
Can I prepare any parts in advance?
You can chop vegetables and prep the shrimp ahead of time to save some effort. The sauce and final combining are best done fresh, but these prep steps will streamline cooking on the day.
What type of sausage works best?
Andouille sausage is ideal because of its smoky and spicy profile, but any smoked sausage or even kielbasa will work well and add that satisfying meaty flavor to the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser—rich, flavorful, and comforting all at once. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little Louisiana flair into your kitchen with minimal fuss but maximum deliciousness. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon and watch how it quickly becomes your new favorite go-to meal whenever you’re craving something indulgent yet approachable.
Print
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
Delight in this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta with sausage, a rich and flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a luscious Cajun-spiced cream sauce over perfectly cooked fettuccine. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty meal brings a taste of Louisiana to your dinner table with ease.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sausage
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
Pasta
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta
Vegetables and Seasonings
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2–3 cloves garlic, chopped
Sauce
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth, sodium-free
- 1 cup heavy cream
- â…” cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano to evenly coat the shrimp with seasoning.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced andouille or smoked sausage. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 10 ounces of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the thinly sliced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Season with 4 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables soften, about 4-5 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in ½ cup crushed tomatoes, 1 cup sodium-free chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes. Add ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked fettuccine, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything well to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce. Cook together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with 1 tablespoon chopped parsley and serve hot for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but expect a slightly less creamy texture.
- If andouille sausage is unavailable, smoked sausage or kielbasa make good alternatives.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
