Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and hearty dish combining tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and creamy Cajun-spiced sauce tossed with fettuccine. Ready in just 35 minutes, it offers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Protein
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be combined later.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned and heated through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Bell Pepper: Incorporate the sliced bell pepper into the skillet and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and combine all ingredients well. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp and browned sausage to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors of this Cajun-inspired pasta dish.
Notes
- You can substitute the smoked sausage with Andouille sausage for a more authentic Cajun flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred level of spice.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
