Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is a deliciously bold dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce, the heat of Cajun seasoning, succulent shrimp, and savory spicy sausage. This flavorful pasta is perfect for those who love a bit of heat mixed with creamy comfort. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and sure to impress anyone who enjoys a hearty, spicy meal.
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or your preferred pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Shrimp and Sausage:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 spicy sausage links (andouille or similar), sliced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage slices and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp and sausage. Mix well to combine.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Serve the creamy Cajun pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy immediately!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes depending on how spicy you like your dish.
- Use a Variety of Sausages: Feel free to swap out andouille sausage with chorizo or another spicy sausage of your choice.
- Creamy Texture: To make the sauce extra creamy, consider adding a bit more Parmesan cheese or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They should be opaque and firm to the touch.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the shrimp and sausage for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or a lighter cream option to reduce the richness of the sauce.
- Add Spinach: For extra flavor and nutrition, stir in fresh spinach leaves during the last few minutes of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use penne, linguine, or any pasta you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy Cajun sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before combining with the cooked pasta and shrimp.
How Do I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you prefer more heat, increase the Cajun seasoning, add extra red pepper flakes, or use a spicier sausage like hot Italian sausage.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of extra cream or broth to thin out the sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is a bold, flavorful dish that brings the best of both worlds: creamy, indulgent pasta and the spice of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something hearty, this dish is packed with flavor and texture. With shrimp, sausage, and a rich creamy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for any pasta lover.
Give this recipe a try, and prepare to be delighted by the rich, spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!