Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage – Experience the bold tastes of the Deep South with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, with Sausage. This captivating dish mingles shrimp, andouille sausage, and vibrant vegetables in a creamy sauce infused with Cajun spices. It’s a blend of tastes that will transport your palate straight to the bayou.
When I first ventured into the kitchen to prepare Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage the delightful chaos began with the enticing of shrimp hitting the pan and the fragrant aroma of Cajun spices wafting through the air. As my husband, an enthusiast for all things peered into the pot his eyes gleamed with anticipation. Our child, who usually has discerning tastes watched curiously as culinary magic unfolded before their eyes. Each step added to our adventure – from caramelizing andouille sausage to combining tomatoes and cream – it all came together beautifully. When we finally sat down at our table to enjoy this dish smiles spread across our faces as murmurs filled the room. My husband proclaimed it a culinary triumph while our child, who is often hesitant about flavors devoured it eagerly and requested seconds. That night Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage became more, than a recipe; it became a family memory forever engraved in our hearts and taste buds.
What makes this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage truly special?
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, with Sausage recipe is truly special as it brings together a blend of flavors. What makes it stand out is the medley of spiciness and creaminess acquired through the use of Cajun seasoning and a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a chance for those nights when you enjoy relishing gourmet Cajun cuisine without deserting the comfort of your home. The best part is that you can easily adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste making it suitable for everyone in the family. The succulent shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and fresh vegetables come together beautifully to create a meal. Can be easily reheated, making it ideal, for special occasions or enjoying leftovers later on.
What You Need To Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe?
Shrimp: For the shrimp it’s best to go with ones that are peeled and deveined. This will save you time during preparation. Make sure they are fresh or properly thawed if you’re using shrimp.
Cajun Seasoning: When it comes to the seasoning, Cajun or Creole seasoning is what really brings this dish to life with its flavor profile. You can adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Andouille or Smoked Sausage: Andouille sausage adds a smoky and spicy kick, to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor you can opt for smoked sausage instead.
Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine pasta works perfectly here with its flat noodles that can hold onto the creamy sauce. Cook them al dente so they retain their texture.
Crushed Tomatoes: For a tomato base make sure to use quality crushed tomatoes. Canned crushed tomatoes work well in this recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: To add depth and richness to the sauce grated Parmesan cheese is a must. Grate it before using it for the best flavor.
Parsley: Finally garnish your finished dish, with some parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Chop it before serving to ensure flavor impact.
Steps To Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage:
Step 1: Begin by giving some love to those shrimp. Season them with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper either Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning if you prefer and a touch of oregano. Make sure to coat them for a burst of goodness.
Step 2: Now take a skillet. Heat it up. Drizzle some olive oil into the pan. Let it shimmer. Gently place the shrimp in the skillet. Let them sizzle, for about 2 minutes on one side before flipping them over for another minute or two. They should turn a color with a slight golden hue. Transfer these gems onto a waiting plate.
Step 3: Next up in the skillet is the sausage’s moment to shine. Add olive oil if needed. Let those slices of sausage sizzle away until they acquire that enticing caramelized color. Slide them onto the plate alongside the shrimp.
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Step 4: While your proteins are stealing the spotlight don’t forget about the pasta. Cook it in boiling water seasoned with salt until it reaches that tender consistency with a hint of firmness, known as al dente.
Step 5: Lower the heat. Add some olive oil to your skillet’s warm embrace. Start by slicing some onions and vibrant red bell peppers. Sprinkle them with more of that Cajun seasoning, a hint of sugar, and a generous pinch of salt. Sauté this mixture until the onions and peppers begin to soften filling the air with aromas that set the stage for a meal.
Step 6: Next add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and the dreamy creaminess of cream. Let everything gently simmer together allowing the rich and smoky scents to meld into a blend.
Step 7: As you sprinkle in some Parmesan cheese watch it gracefully swirl into the sauce creating a velvety masterpiece.
Step 8: Now it’s time to bring all the elements together. Add in the pasta. Return the browned sausage back, into the pan. Gently stir everything together allowing those flavors to become companions on your palate. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 9: The grand finale awaits! Introduce those succulent shrimp that were set aside earlier. They are truly stars in this dish. Deserve their moment in the spotlight.
Step 10: Before serving this masterpiece give it a touch by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top. It adds a burst of freshness that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Step 11: Now gather your loved ones around. Savor this delight infused with Cajun spices. It’s more than a meal; it’s an orchestra of flavors creating memories that will last forever. Enjoy every bite!
Tip:
Looking to elevate this Cajun treat? Here’s a little trick; give your shrimp a marinade! Prior, to cooking allow the seasoned shrimp to rest in the refrigerator, for 15 to 20 minutes. This additional time allows the amazing flavors to penetrate the shrimp enhancing their taste and creating a burst of Cajun goodness with every bite. Trust me you’ll appreciate the added flavor when you savor those shrimp on.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I adjust the spice level in this Cajun shrimp pasta?
Sure you have the option to adjust the spice level, in this Cajun shrimp pasta. If you prefer a milder flavor you can simply reduce the amount of Cajun or Creole seasoning used in the recipe. On the other hand, if you’re someone who enjoys spicier dishes feel free to add some seasoning to amp up the heat according to your taste.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! You have the flexibility to use a type of pasta or fettuccine. You can choose your pasta variety like penne, linguine or spaghetti based on your preferences or what you have available in your pantry.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s recommended to enjoy this dish fresh for taste and texture you do have the option to prepare components ahead of time. Cook the sausage and shrimp separately and store them in airtight containers, in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve simply reheat the sauce combine all the ingredients together and savor your Cajun shrimp pasta with minimal effort.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 lb. large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- ½ tsp dried Oregano
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage (thinly sliced)
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta
- ½ yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 4 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2-3 cloves garlic (chopped)
- ½ c crushed tomatoes
- 1 c chicken broth sodium free
- 1 c heavy cream
- ⅔ c Grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Start by tossing the shrimp with a mixture of salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning and oregano until they are well coated. Take a skillet. Heat it over medium-high heat while drizzling some olive oil on the bottom.
- Next add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for around 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp. Let them cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Once done transfer them to a plate. Set aside.
- Drizzle olive oil into the same pan then add the sausage and cook until it turns caramelized and browned which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan. Set it aside as well.
- Now it's time to cook your pasta in boiling water that has been generously seasoned with salt. Cook it until it reaches an al dente texture.
- Lower the heat, on your stove to medium add olive oil into the pan you used earlier then introduce onion, red bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar and a pinch of salt. Sauté this mixture until both onion and pepper have softened nicely.
- After that's done cooking for a bit incorporate garlic into your pan. Cook it for 30 seconds.
- Proceed by pouring crushed tomatoes along, with chicken broth and heavy cream into your pan. Allow everything to come to a simmer while stirring gently to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom of your skillet.
- Stir in some Parmesan cheese into this sauce you've created until everything is perfectly blended together. Once combined nicely add in both cooked pasta as well as the sausage while stirring gently so they are evenly coated with sauce. Let this mixture heat through for about 2 to 3 minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- To finish off this dish beautifully add in those cooked shrimp you prepared earlier. Garnish the dish by sprinkling some chopped parsley on top.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
