Step into the world of culinary enchantment with our Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage—a dish that marries the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, succulent shrimp, and caramelized sausage in a velvety cream sauce. This indulgent pasta creation is a celebration of spice, warmth, and richness, promising a dining experience that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
In our household, this Cajun-inspired masterpiece has become a tale of irresistible allure. The sizzle of shrimp meeting a hot pan, the aroma of spices dancing in the air, and the creamy sauce embracing the pasta—all elements of a love story told through food. Every time I prepare this dish, it’s not just a meal; it’s an adventure into the world of bold flavors and hearty satisfaction. It’s the dish that turns ordinary evenings into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner:
- Spice Sensation: The Cajun-seasoned shrimp and sausage create a symphony of bold and spicy flavors that dance on your palate.
- Creamy Indulgence: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan transforms this dish into a lusciously creamy pasta experience.
- Caramelized Magic: The caramelized andouille sausage adds a depth of flavor and a touch of smokiness that elevates the entire dish.
- Quick Gourmet: Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal made effortlessly in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 10 ounces fettuccine pasta
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup sodium-free chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and oregano, ensuring an even coating. Cook shrimp in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2 minutes, flip and cook for another minute or two. Set aside.
- In the same pan, drizzle a bit more olive oil and brown the sliced sausage for about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Lower heat to medium, add olive oil to the pan, and sauté onion, red bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until softened. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring and scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Add Parmesan, stir into the sauce until blended. Add cooked pasta and sausage, stir to combine and heat through (2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper, then add the cooked shrimp.
- Serve with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Notes:
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Ensure the shrimp are not overcooked to maintain their succulence.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley for a visual and flavor boost.
