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.