Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
An Irresistible Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something comforting yet exciting. That’s where this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta comes to the rescue. It’s a creamy, flavorful dish that’s ready in just 40 minutes, bringing the robust tastes of Cajun cuisine right to your kitchen. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, delicious, and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of shrimp and sausage in this pasta dish is simply irresistible. The smokiness of the sausage pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp, all enveloped in a creamy Cajun sauce. It’s like having a restaurant-quality meal at home! Plus, with its quick preparation time, you can spend more time enjoying dinner with family and friends and less time in the kitchen.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb. large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Oregano
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage (thinly sliced)
- 10 ounces fettuccine pasta
- ½ yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2-3 cloves garlic (chopped)
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth (sodium free)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup Grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp parsley (chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and Oregano to coat well. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes. Flip them over and cook for another minute or two. Remove to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and the sausage. Brown it until it’s nicely caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Lower the skillet’s heat to medium, add more olive oil, and toss in the onion, red bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onion and pepper soften, scraping up any browned bits as you go. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring and scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Once simmering, add the Parmesan and stir until it’s blended into the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and sausage, stirring to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and finally, add the shrimp.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
Tips for Success
For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and high-quality andouille sausage. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference. If you like it extra creamy, add a splash more of heavy cream.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition. For a gluten-free option, replace the fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in protein from the shrimp and sausage and provides a hearty dose of flavor without being overly heavy. The use of heavy cream and Parmesan adds a delightful creaminess, making this comfort food at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance, but it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving to keep them tender.
What can I use instead of andouille sausage?
Any smoked sausage will work well, such as kielbasa or chorizo.
Conclusion
Try this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta for a taste of Southern comfort that’s quick and easy to prepare. It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table, just as it is at ours! We’d love to hear how you enjoy this recipe, so feel free to share your experiences and any creative variations you try.