Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

Prepare yourself for a dish that’s not just a meal, but an experience—Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta! This vibrant medley of flavors whisks your tastebuds away to a sun-soaked bayou, where every bite dances with spice and the alluring aroma of Southern cuisine. It’s a dish that brings back nostalgic family dinners, where the laughter mingled with the delightful sizzle of shrimp and sausage in a pan.

Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight dinner or an indulgent feast for the family, Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta has got you covered. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet quick. Its bold flavors and savory warmth are sure to win over kids and adults alike, making you the star of the kitchen in no time!

Isn’t it time to spice up your dinner routine?

Have you ever reached into your pantry, hoping to whip up something delicious but ended up feeling uninspired? Picture this: a plateful of luscious pasta entwined with plump shrimp and smoky sausage, all kissed by the strong, fiery notes of Cajun seasoning. Can you resist the siren call of such mouthwatering temptation? Perhaps it’s time to break free from monotony and dive into this tantalizing creation that promises to elevate your dinner game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep and Cook Time: Spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table enjoying your meal.

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of Cajun spices, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce delivers a burst of flavor that excites the senses.

• Versatile: Suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family night, a get-together with friends, or even a romantic dinner for two.

• Kid-Friendly: Its rich and comforting flavors make it appealing to younger palates, so you won’t have trouble getting them to eat their veggies!

• One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after the meal.

Ingredients

• 10 ounces fettuccini, lovingly intertwining each strand for a delightful chew.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, ready to soak up all those beautiful spices.

• Kosher salt to taste, bringing the dish to life.

• Black pepper to taste, for that gentle kick.

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, the heartbeat of this dish.

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, adding a little Mediterranean flair.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, introducing that silky richness.

• 6 ounces andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced into juicy, flavor-packed pieces.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing, lending an aromatic backdrop.

• 1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced thin, adding a lovely crunch.

• 1 yellow onion, diced, for its sweet, caramelized flavor.

• 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1 inch chunks, adding a pop of color and sweetness.

• 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, for those who crave an extra kick.

• 1 teaspoon brown sugar, to balance the bold spices.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced, for that aromatic allure.

• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes, bringing a luscious sweetness that ties the dish together.

• 1 cup chicken broth, lifting all the flavors to new heights.

• 1 cup heavy cream, creating a lush and dreamy texture.

• 1/2 cup parmesan, because everything is better with cheese.

• Fresh chopped parsley (optional), for a vibrant finishing touch.

Timing

Serve up this Cajun creation in under 30 minutes! It’s perfect for those indulgent evenings when you want to treat yourself, but with minimal effort. With its fast prep, it channels the essence of both fast and luxurious cooking, offering a dynamic option for any busy night.

Of course, if you’re looking to savor the moment, let each step become a joyful experience. Slicing veggies, sautéing shrimp until they turn pink and succulent, and watching the sauce bubble—this meal invites you to relish the process as much as the end result.

Step-by-Step

1. Boil the Pasta: Add pasta to a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook to al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and set aside.

2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle olive oil in the pan. When hot, add shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes. Flip and cook an additional minute, until they turn pink and firm. Remove from pan and set aside.

3. Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add sliced sausage. Cook until lightly browned on both sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables: Lower heat, then add 3 tablespoons olive oil to the same pan. Add chopped zucchini, onion, red peppers, remaining Cajun seasoning, and brown sugar. Toss to coat, cooking until veggies are soft (3-5 minutes).

5. Combine the Sauces: Add minced garlic, letting it sauté for 30 seconds. Then stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring continuously to release the flavors stuck to the pan. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Bring it All Together: Add in parmesan, cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage. Fold everything together gently and let simmer until heated through (another 2-3 minutes). Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color.

Nutritional Information

This delightful dish serves approximately 4 and totals around 600 calories per serving, offering a comforting treat that’s indulgent yet fulfilling. Enjoying a hearty pasta meal like this every now and then is not just okay—it’s encouraged! The rich blend of flavors is as nourishing for the soul as it is for the palate.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to make this dish a tad lighter? Consider subbing heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. You can also opt for whole wheat fettuccini for more fiber and nutrients, or swap the sausage for grilled chicken or turkey sausage for a lower-fat protein option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta with a refreshing green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the meal’s richness. For those sweeter moments, consider topping off dinner with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream—it’s the perfect ending to a Southern-inspired feast!

Common Mistakes

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Aim to cook just until pink and firm; they’ll become rubbery if overdone.

• Soggy Pasta: Be sure to cook your fettuccini al dente to keep that delightful bite.

• Not Enough Seasoning: This dish thrives on bold flavors—don’t be shy with the Cajun spice!

• Messes in the Kitchen: Use a larger pot for pasta and don’t overcrowd the skillet; it makes a world of difference!

Storing Tips

Leftovers? No problem! This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion out and freeze in zip-top bags. Kindly note that while it freezes well, the cream sauce might change a bit upon reheating. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to lighten the sauce.

Tempted Yet?

Get ready to whip up this wonderful Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta! You’ll fall in love with its bold flavors and comforting warmth—it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and let the cooking begin!

FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp?
  Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

• How spicy is this dish?
  The level of spice can be adjusted based on your tolerance. Start with less Cajun seasoning and add more as you go!

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep all veggies and shrimp in advance to speed up the cooking process.

• What can I use instead of andouille sausage?
  Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or even smoked kielbasa for a different flavor profile.

• Is there a vegetarian version?
  Absolutely! Swap shrimp and sausage for sautéed mushrooms and a firm plant-based protein, and utilize vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful, and comforting dish that awakens the soul, and remember—dinner can indeed be both quick and indulgent!

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

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• Author: bright
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A vibrant medley of flavors featuring shrimp and sausage in a spicy Cajun sauce, perfect for a quick and hearty meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10 ounces fettuccini
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Kosher salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 ounces andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
• 1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced thin
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1 inch chunks
• 2–3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: Add pasta to a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook to al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and set aside.
2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle olive oil in the pan. When hot, add shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes. Flip and cook an additional minute, until they turn pink and firm. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add sliced sausage. Cook until lightly browned on both sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Lower heat, then add 3 tablespoons olive oil to the same pan. Add chopped zucchini, onion, red peppers, remaining Cajun seasoning, and brown sugar. Toss to coat, cooking until veggies are soft (3-5 minutes).
5. Combine the Sauces: Add minced garlic, letting it sauté for 30 seconds. Then stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring continuously to release the flavors stuck to the pan. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Bring it All Together: Add in parmesan, cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage. Fold everything together gently and let simmer until heated through (another 2-3 minutes). Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use whole wheat fettuccini for more fiber.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 150mg