Regarding comfort food that packs a punch, Cajun shrimp and sausage pasta are dishes that truly stand out. Picture this: smoky, savory sausage mingling with tender, juicy shrimp, all wrapped up in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce that clings to every twirl of pasta. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress. Are you prepared to introduce a Southern flavor to your cooking? Let’s get started on making the best Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta you’ve ever tasted!
What Makes Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta So Special?
A Southern Comfort Food Classic: Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is inspired by the bold, flavorful cuisine of Louisiana. Cajun cooking is all about using what you have on hand, from fresh shrimp to smoky sausage, combined with a symphony of spices and aromatic vegetables. This pasta dish is a perfect example of how these simple, hearty ingredients come together to create something truly magical.
A Brief Dive into Cajun Cuisine: Cajun cuisine has its roots in the French-speaking Acadians who were expelled from Canada and eventually settled in Louisiana during the 18th century. Over time, these settlers developed a rustic cooking style that blended local ingredients like seafood and spices with their traditional French techniques. The result? A rich, flavorful cuisine that’s as vibrant as the people who created it. Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is a modern twist on these time-honored flavors, making it a staple in kitchens far beyond Louisiana.
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: A Spicy Comfort Dish You’ll Love
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
Description
Savor the bold flavors of Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta, a comforting dish that combines smoky sausage and juicy shrimp in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe brings a touch of Southern heat and richness to your table.
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you jump into the kitchen, make sure you have everything you need to create this flavorful 1 lb Pasta
- 1 lb Pasta
- 1 tbsp Chicken Bouillon Paste (optional)
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 lb Smoked Sausage (sliced)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 4 tsp Cajun Seasoning
- ½ Yellow Onion (chopped)
- 2 Bell Peppers (chopped)
- 2 Celery Stalks (chopped)
- 5 Garlic Cloves (diced)
- 6 oz Tomato Paste
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ cup Chicken Broth
- 14 oz Diced Tomatoes (canned)
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 cups Spinach (fresh)
- 1 cup Parmesan (grated)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (diced)
Instructions
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Pasta
A big pot of salted water should be brought to a boil. Add ▢1 lb Pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. For added taste, feel free to add about 1 tablespoon of Chicken Bouillon Paste to the boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp and Sausage
In a large skillet, heat ▢1 tbsp Olive Oil over medium-high heat. Add about 1 pound of sliced smoked sausage and sauté until it turns brown on both sides. After removing it from the skillet, set the sausage aside. Add about 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the same skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the sausage.
3. Build the Cajun Sauce
If necessary, add a small amount of extra olive oil to the skillet. Sauté ▢½ Yellow Onion (chopped), ▢2 Bell Peppers (chopped), and ▢2 Celery Stalks (chopped) until softened.
Stir in ▢4 tsp Cajun Seasoning, ▢5 Garlic Cloves (diced), ▢½ tsp Onion Powder, and ▢½ tsp Garlic Powder. Cook until the spices are fragrant.
Add ▢6 oz Tomato Paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in ▢½ cup Chicken Broth and ▢14 oz Diced Tomatoes (canned), stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce.
Add ▢2 cups Spinach and cook until wilted.
Stir in ▢1 tbsp Lemon Juice and ▢1 cup Parmesan (grated), stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, using tongs to toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta hot, garnished with ▢2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (diced). Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Creative Variations and Tips:
Dial Up the Heat: If you love a dish with a little extra kick, don’t be shy with the Cajun seasoning. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
Creamier Sauce: For an even richer sauce, add a bit of cream cheese or a splash of half-and-half along with the heavy cream.
Veggie Lover’s Twist: Boost the nutritional value by tossing in some zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. It’s easy to get more veggies into your meal without sacrificing flavor.
Protein Swaps: Not a fan of shrimp? No problem! This dish works just as well with chicken, or you could even try it with crawfish for a true Cajun experience.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
To balance this dish’s richness, try pairing it with:
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that delicious creamy sauce.
Simple Green Salad: Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it’s a great way to cut through the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Veggies: Try roasting asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli for a tasty, healthy side.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, consider using smoked sausage in this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta recipe. The smoky flavor complements the shrimp and enhances the dish’s overall taste. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. To make the dish creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty finish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Pasta Dish
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 550-650 kcal
- Sugar: 4-6 g
- Sodium: 1200-1500 mg
- Fat: 25-30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10-12 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
- Protein: 30-35 g
- Cholesterol: 200-250 mg
Common Questions About Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Andouille sausage is traditional, you can use any smoked sausage or even chorizo for a slightly different flavor.
What kind of shrimp is best?
Medium to large shrimp work best in this recipe—they cook quickly and add great texture to the dish.
How can I tone down the spice?
To reduce the heat, simply use less Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder blend. You can also add extra cream to balance out the spiciness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Pasta, shrimp, sausage, and sauce can all be made ahead of time and combined right before serving. This way, the pasta stays perfectly al dente.
How do I store leftovers?
If stored in an airtight container, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion: Why Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Should Be Your Next Meal
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for those who love a little spice in their life. It’s a dish that brings the bold, vibrant flavors of Louisiana right into your home, combining the smoky heat of Andouille sausage with the sweet, tender bite of shrimp, all tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So grab your skillet and get ready to whip up some serious flavor!
Made with Love Chef Emily
‘ Cooking Up a Storm at Recipe Castle’
