Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Louisiana bayou to your kitchen. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and a creamy, spicy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your preferred spice level. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage:
- ½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
- 1 andouille sausage, about ½ pound, sliced into rounds
- 1 – 2 tablespoons cajun/creole spice mix, adjust to your spice/heat level
- Olive oil
- ½ medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon cajun/creole spice mix
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 – 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped (1 large or 2 small)
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream, or ½ & ½ (I prefer heavy cream!!)
- 12 ounces fettuccine or farfalle (bowties)
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper
- Grated Parmesan and chopped parsley, for serving
Instructions
Preparing the Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage:
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with 1-2 tablespoons of cajun/creole spice mix to coat evenly.
- Cook the Shrimp and Sausage: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon of cajun/creole spice mix, and brown sugar. Add the chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the skillet. Toss to combine and coat everything in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Cook’s Notes
- Adjusting Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of cajun/creole spice mix to suit your heat preference. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier.
- Cream Substitute: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the cajun/creole spice mix is gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
- Vegetarian: Replace the shrimp and sausage with a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve.
- How can I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- It’s not recommended to freeze dishes with cream-based sauces as they can separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sauce without the cream and add it when reheating.
- What other types of sausage can I use?
- You can use any smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different flavor profile.
- What can I serve with Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage?
- This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
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Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the flavors of the Louisiana bayou right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine. Happy cooking!