If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Pasta with Succulent Shrimp and Spicy Sausage. This dish combines the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender shrimp, savory sausage, and a luscious cream sauce. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve at a special gathering. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, this pasta dish will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients :
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
Salt, for boiling water
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound (225 g) Andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Preparation :
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage and Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour (if using) and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Stir to coat with the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch.
Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Note :
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional few minutes until thickened.
Serving Suggestions :
This Creamy Cajun Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For added texture, serve with crusty garlic bread or a side of freshly baked rolls.
Tips :
