If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping, flavor-packed dinner, look no further than Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage. This dish is a glorious mashup of tender pasta tossed in a Cajun-spiced cream sauce, plump shrimp, and smoky slices of sausage, all accented by the vibrant trio of bell peppers, onion, and garlic. It comes together in under an hour yet tastes like something you’d order at your favorite southern bistro—rich, bold, and just the right amount of spicy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight crowd or treating yourself to a weekend feast, this recipe is guaranteed to earn rave reviews.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Despite its restaurant-worthy look, the ingredient list for Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is completely manageable. Each item has a purpose, bringing its own color, texture, or punch of flavor to the pasta party. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get started:
- Pasta (fettuccine or penne): The perfect base, offering just the right texture to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Plump and juicy, they carry the Cajun spices beautifully and add a hint of sweetness to balance the heat.
- Spicy smoked sausage: Sliced and sautéed for a smoky, meaty bite that’s impossible to resist.
- Olive oil: Keeps things from sticking and helps develop color on your sausage.
- Butter (divided): Adds serious richness to both the sautéed vegetables and the finishing sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic amps up the savory notes with a subtle kick.
- Red and green bell peppers (thinly sliced): Their sweetness and crunch bring color and balance to the whole dish.
- Onion (thinly sliced): Rounds out the aromatic base and caramelizes beautifully.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that ultra-creamy, decadent sauce!
- Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce without weighing it down.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce for ultimate creaminess and a touch of sharp, nutty flavor.
- Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend, bringing heat and a ton of southern character.
- Smoked paprika: Adds another layer of smoky warmth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love it extra fiery!
- Salt and black pepper: Don’t forget to season as you go to amp up all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): A bright finishing touch that makes the whole dish pop.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s just al dente, so it holds up nicely in the sauce later. Once it’s ready, drain thoroughly and set aside—you’ll want that pasta waiting in the wings for its spicy, creamy role!
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is slightly foamy, toss in the sliced sausage. Let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a gorgeous golden crust, then stir occasionally until browned all over, about 4–5 minutes. Scoop out the sausage and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, add the shrimp and sprinkle them with one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook them in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and a little bit crisp on the edges—don’t overcook, as shrimp toughen quickly. Remove from the pan and set them aside with the sausage.
Step 4: Sauté Veggies and Build the Base
Add the remaining two tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic, thinly sliced bell peppers, and onion. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are soft and fragrant. Add in the rest of the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, and cook for another minute to toast the spices and awaken their flavors.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking to deglaze the pan and incorporate all the tasty browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce bubble away for about 5 minutes, until it’s slightly thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and keep whisking until you have a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta, cooked sausage, and shrimp back into the skillet. Give everything a giant toss to make sure each bite gets coated in the luxurious sauce. Finish with a dusting of chopped parsley for color and freshness. Now serve your Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage piping hot and prepare to soak up the compliments!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage
Garnishes
A final flourish can transform this meal from satisfying to swoon-worthy. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each bowl for brightness, shave extra Parmesan on top for an irresistible salty bite, and if you’re feeling extra bold, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a spark of heat. Serving straight from the skillet makes it feel rustic and cozy!
Side Dishes
A generous slice of garlic bread is practically non-negotiable—a perfect side to mop up every drop of sauce from your Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette is a bright, refreshing contrast and helps cut through the richness. Simple roasted vegetables would also complement all the spicy, creamy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn this dish into a special occasion centerpiece by twirling heaps of the pasta onto large shallow bowls for an elegant look. Try serving individual portions in small cast-iron skillets for intimate dinners. Or layer the pasta in a serving platter, then scatter the shrimp and sausage over the top so everyone gets a bit of everything in every scoop—a real feast for the eyes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage left (which is rare, believe me!), let it cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a super flavorful lunch or easy dinner the next day.
Freezing
While cream-based sauces can be tricky to freeze, this pasta can be frozen if you’re in a pinch. For best results, allow the dish to cool completely and freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. When reheated, the texture of the sauce might shift slightly, but a splash of additional cream or broth can revive it.
Reheating
To reheat Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage, place leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through—the flavors will meld beautifully, and the sauce will become silky again. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long, as it can become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage less spicy?
Absolutely! You’re fully in charge of the heat level. Simply reduce the Cajun seasoning and leave out the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a milder sauce that still packs big flavor.
What’s the best type Main Course, Pasta
Spicy smoked sausages like andouille or chorizo are ideal for Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage, as they add that signature bold flavor. If you prefer, mild turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. It’s a great way to cut calories but still enjoy a luscious, creamy dish.
Is this dish gluten-free?
As written, the recipe uses traditional pasta, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your sausage is gluten-free as well.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Definitely! Just be sure to fully thaw them, pat them dry, and remove any visible moisture before cooking. This helps them sear and hold onto all that amazing Cajun seasoning.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a long-time fan of southern food or new to Cajun flavors, Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage could easily become your new obsession. It’s easy, vibrant, and loaded with personality—there’s nothing quite like a big bowl of this pasta to bring everyone running to the table. Don’t wait for a special occasion; treat yourself and your loved ones tonight!
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Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage. This decadent pasta dish combines succulent shrimp, spicy smoked sausage, and a creamy, Cajun-seasoned sauce for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Shrimp and Sausage:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz spicy smoked sausage, sliced
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp and Sausage: Brown sausage in a skillet, then cook shrimp until pink. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté garlic, peppers, and onion. Add seasonings, cream, and broth. Simmer and stir in Parmesan until creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Toss pasta, sausage, and shrimp in the sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust spice level to taste.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Pair with garlic bread or a green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg
