Creamy Cajun Pasta with Succulent Shrimp and Spicy Sausage

There’s something so comforting about a plate of pasta, especially when it’s packed with bold Cajun flavors, tender shrimp, and savory sausage. Today, I’m beyond excited to share this Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage—a quick and delicious dish that brings the rich, smoky heat of Cajun seasoning together with creamy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this dish will leave everyone satisfied!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion! Imagine juicy shrimp and spicy sausage coated in a creamy sauce that’s just the right balance of spicy and savory. Each bite is full of tender pasta, fresh veggies, and that irresistible kick from Cajun seasoning. It’s a one-pot wonder!

Simple and Quick. With just 35 minutes, this recipe makes weeknight dinners feel like a restaurant-quality treat. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan (minus the pasta), making cleanup a breeze.

Versatile for Every Taste. Love extra spice? Go for it! Prefer it mild? You’re in control. This dish adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz spicy chicken sausage, sliced
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust for more or less heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Necessary Tools for Preparation

You won’t need any fancy gadgets for this meal. Just a few basics:

• A large pan or skillet for cooking the shrimp, sausage, and sauce.
• A pot for boiling the pasta.
• A colander to drain the pasta.
• A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Using the same skillet, add the shrimp. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Set the shrimp aside with the sausage.

4. Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, toss in the bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

5. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

6. Combine It All

Add the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp back into the pan. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would make great additions.
• Protein Alternatives: Swap the shrimp for chicken, or try using smoked sausage for a richer flavor.
• Lighter Version: You can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
• Heat Level: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, start with half a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and add more to taste.

What to Serve with Cajun Pasta

This pasta dish is rich and hearty on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, here are a few ideas:

• A crisp Caesar salad to contrast the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
• For a lighter option, try roasted vegetables or a simple side of steamed broccoli.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. As soon as they turn pink, they’re ready!
2. Adjust the Spice: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat, so taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
3. Get Creamy: If your sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to keep the sauce from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead, but for best results, cook the pasta and assemble the dish just before serving. This keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce fresh.

Is this recipe spicy?

It can be! You control the heat by adjusting the Cajun seasoning. If you want a milder dish, reduce the amount or opt for a mild Cajun seasoning.

Can I freeze Cajun pasta?

While you can freeze this dish, cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed and reheated. If freezing, I recommend adding a little extra cream when reheating to bring the sauce back together.

Conclusion

If you’re in the mood for a quick yet indulgent meal, this Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is a perfect choice! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re spicing up your weeknight dinners or impressing guests on the weekend, this dish will never disappoint!

Don’t forget to leave a review and share your creation on Pinterest! I’d love to see how your pasta turns out.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 55g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 1150mg

Looking for more delicious pasta recipes? Try these next:

• Seafood Pasta with Linguine, Shrimp, and Mussels
• Classic Italian Pastina Soup
• Old-School Spaghetti: A Nostalgic Classic Made Easy

Enjoy!

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