Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make one-pan meal featuring succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender pasta all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish combines bold spices, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon juice for a delicious American-inspired main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
Sauce and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Brown Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet along with red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Mix well to combine and serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter alternative.
- Add fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes to boost color and flavor.
- This dish is great for meal prep and reheats well for quick lunches or dinners.
