Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a rich, comforting, and flavor-packed dish that brings together smoky sausage, juicy shrimp, and pasta in a velvety Cajun cream sauce. This Southern-inspired dinner is quick enough for a weeknight but bold enough to wow guests.

What Makes It Special?

This dish combines the spiciness of Cajun seasoning with the richness of a creamy sauce, perfectly balanced by the savoriness of sausage and the sweetness of shrimp. It’s one of those meals where every bite is satisfying—especially when the sauce coats the pasta just right.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
½ lb andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more for shrimp)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage slices and cook for 4–5 minutes, until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Shrimp

Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

4. Sauté Aromatics

Add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

5. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.

6. Combine Everything

Return cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.

7. Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Variations

Make it spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes
Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
Vegetable boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini
No sausage: Double the shrimp or use chicken instead

Equipment Needed

Large pot for pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan
Tongs or spatula
Chef’s knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 680
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Not ideal due to cream-based sauce, but can be frozen up to 1 month
Reheat: Warm slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce

My Cooking Experience

The first time I made this dish, I was blown away by how flavorful it was with such little effort. The Cajun seasoning delivers just the right kick, and the creamy sauce mellows it out perfectly. It’s quickly become one of my go-to comfort meals with a touch of heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is bold, rich, and totally unforgettable. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies pasta lovers, spice lovers, and comfort food fans alike. Whether you’re making dinner for family or just treating yourself, this one’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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