It seems like the ingredients listed are for a beef pot roast, but the title refers to Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage. Let me provide you with the correct recipe for Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage. This dish is a quick and flavorful meal that combines spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp and sausage in a creamy sauce over pasta.
How to Make Quick and Delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Ingredients:
- Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
- Andouille sausage: 1 pound, sliced into rounds
- Pasta: 12 ounces (fettuccine, penne, or your preferred pasta)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Bell peppers: 2 (red and green), sliced
- Cajun seasoning: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Chicken broth: 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the Andouille sausage slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, and then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
To the sautéed vegetables, add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked sausage and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to ensure all the pasta is covered in the creamy, flavorful Cajun sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Notes:
- Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat tolerance. For a milder dish, use less seasoning, or use a store-bought mild Cajun blend.
- Sausage: Andouille sausage adds a great smoky flavor to the dish, but you can use any smoked sausage of your choice.
- Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variations:
- Spicy Cajun Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra hot sauce for an added kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the shrimp and sausage with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant for a meatless version.
- Lemon Cajun Pasta: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist to balance the spice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, if you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, simply toss them in the Cajun seasoning and add them to the skillet during the last minute of cooking to heat through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage, shrimp, and sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a quick and delicious dish packed with bold flavors. The smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and creamy Cajun sauce make for a perfect combination, and the dish is ready in no time. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its rich taste and simplicity. Enjoy!
