Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is a bold and flavorful dish that brings together a rich, velvety sauce with the zesty kick of Cajun spices.
Loaded with protein from succulent shrimp and savory sausage, it also features vibrant bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or preferred pasta
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb spicy sausage, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove both from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables in the same skillet. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Make the sauce by stirring in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for a minute until the flavors blend.
Step 5: Combine everything by adding the pasta, shrimp, and sausage back to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce and heated through.
Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Serving & Timing
- Serves: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Try smoked or turkey sausage for a milder flavor.
- Extra Vegetables: Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can add more texture and nutrients.
- Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
- Pasta Options: Use penne, farfalle, or gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage
Indulge in the bold flavors of Louisiana with this Creamy Cajun Pasta featuring succulent shrimp and spicy sausage. Tossed in a rich, velvety sauce with vibrant vegetables, this dish is the perfect balance of comfort and excitement. Quick to make and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or preferred pasta
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb spicy sausage, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove both from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables in the same skillet. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Make the sauce by stirring in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for a minute until the flavors blend.
- Combine everything by adding the pasta, shrimp, and sausage back to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes