Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta recipe offers a flavorful, spicy twist on classic pasta, combining succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and a creamy Cajun-seasoned sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect hearty and comforting meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Seafood and Meat
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: Using the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned and slightly crisp on the edges. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Bell Pepper: Incorporate the sliced bell pepper into the skillet and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers begin to soften.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chicken broth, and the drained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp and browned sausage to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the proteins evenly and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked fettuccine pasta into the skillet and toss to combine with the creamy Cajun sauce, shrimp, and sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately while warm and enjoy your flavorful Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute smoked sausage with Andouille sausage for a more authentic Cajun flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream or use half-and-half.
- To save time, use pre-cooked shrimp but adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid rubbery texture.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain sauce consistency.