If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that packs a punch of flavor, a creamy texture, and a little bit of Southern charm, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is about to become your new favorite. This dish is a celebration of bold Cajun spices and succulent shrimp, paired with smoky andouille sausage in a velvety Parmesan-spiked sauce. Every forkful brings a taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen table, blending spice and comfort beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to something satisfying, this pasta recipe makes every bite memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one brings something wonderful to the table, from smoky heat to creamy richness, creating a dish that looks stunning and tastes even better.
- Pasta (8 ounces fettuccine or penne): Choose your favorite shape; penne soaks up the sauce while fettuccine creates elegant, twirlable strands.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing and developing rich flavor as your first layer of the dish.
- Andouille sausage (8 ounces, sliced): Smoky and robust, this sausage adds a dose of Cajun authenticity and a meaty bite.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Tender shrimp soak up the spices and add sweetness to balance the spice.
- Cajun seasoning (2 teaspoons, divided): The heart of the dish, delivering depth, spice, and true Louisiana spirit.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): For richness and to help the flavors come together harmoniously.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Just the right amount of punch, giving the sauce aromatic warmth.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the sauce’s irresistible silkiness and helps mellow the spices.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds a savory note and keeps the sauce light yet flavorful.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts smoothly into the sauce, bringing a nutty, salty kick.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances the smoky notes from the sausage and deepens the color beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Season to your preference—taste along the way for balance.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish: A fresh, herby finish that brightens the final dish.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your favorite pasta—fettuccine or penne both work beautifully—according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once drained, set your pasta aside, but don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of pasta water. This step ensures your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage will have that extra silky finish at the end.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
Heat up olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat and add the sliced andouille sausage. Sauté the sausage for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s golden brown and the edges are a little crisp. This process unlocks the irresistible smokiness that forms the foundation of your sauce. Once browned, remove the sausage and keep it nearby—you’ll be adding it back in soon.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
With that same skillet (no need to clean—leave those flavorful bits!), melt the butter. Add the shrimp, sprinkle them with half the Cajun seasoning, and sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Once they’re just pink and opaque, scoop them out. You want them juicy and tender, not overcooked, as they’ll make one more appearance in the sauce shortly.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and toss the minced garlic into the skillet, stirring until fragrant—this takes just 30 seconds but makes all the difference. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, add the Parmesan, smoked paprika, the rest of the Cajun seasoning, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Let everything simmer together for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce looks rich, smooth, and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the sausage and cooked shrimp back into your skillet, followed by the pasta. Gently toss until everything is coated in that irresistible Cajun-spiced sauce. If things get too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Once everything is glossy and tangled together, it’s time to serve your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese just before serving makes this dish pop, adding freshness and color. For a little heat and vibrancy, try a light dusting of extra Cajun seasoning or a squeeze of lemon over each plate.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a show-stopper all on its own, but if you’re aiming for a feast, serve it with a crisp green salad, buttery garlic bread, or roasted asparagus. The creamy, spicy sauce pairs well with anything fresh and light on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation at your next dinner party, twirl the pasta high with tongs in a shallow bowl, then arrange the shrimp and sausage artfully on top. A drizzle of the sauce and a scattering of parsley transform this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage into a restaurant-worthy plate right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to keep all that spicy, creamy flavor locked in, and give it a gentle stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, the creamy sauce may change texture slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container, and try to eat within two months for best flavor. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. The microwave works in a pinch—just cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken, scallops, or even a seafood mix make delicious substitutions. Adjust cook times as needed and enjoy customizing it to your taste.
Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a mild version. You can also add more cream or Parmesan to dial down the heat while keeping all the rich flavor.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine and penne are both fantastic, but truly, any sturdy pasta works. Short shapes hold the sauce, while longer noodles make for a fork-twirling experience.
Can I prepare Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage ahead of time?
You can make the sauce and cook the shrimp and sausage in advance, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get too soft.
How do I make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage gluten-free?
Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that all sausage and seasonings are gluten-free. The creamy, spicy sauce will shine just as beautifully!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish with layers of flavor, a hint of heat, and serious comfort factor, you’ll fall in love with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage. It’s sure to impress, whether you’re sharing it with family or treating yourself to a well-deserved, decadent dinner. Gather your ingredients, turn up some Cajun jazz, and let this vibrant pasta transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana.
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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
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent yet comforting dish with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage recipe. It features perfectly cooked shrimp and andouille sausage, tossed in a rich cream sauce with Cajun spices, served over fettuccine or penne pasta. This flavorful Southern-inspired dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
Shrimp and Sausage:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sear the Sausage and Shrimp: In a skillet, sauté sliced andouille sausage until browned. Set aside. In the same skillet, cook shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In the skillet, sauté garlic, then add cream, broth, Parmesan, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Return sausage and shrimp to the skillet, add pasta, toss to coat. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste
- Substitute protein as desired
- Dish reheats well for meal prep
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