Are you craving a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta. Combining succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and a creamy Cajun sauce, this dish promises to be a hit at your dinner table. Follow this easy recipe to create a restaurant-quality meal in just 35 minutes!
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the Bell Pepper: Incorporate the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Combine Everything: Return the shrimp and sausage to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Garnish: Enhance the presentation of your dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also add an extra layer of flavor.
Accompaniments: Serve your Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
Portion Size: For a complete meal, serve approximately 1 ½ to 2 cups of pasta per person. Adjust portions based on the appetites of your guests.
Presentation: For an elegant touch, consider serving the pasta in individual bowls or plates. This can make the dish feel more special and well-planned.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days to ensure freshness and safety.
Freezing: While the pasta can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change in texture. To freeze, place the pasta in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently to prevent overcooking. You can use a microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid overcooking the shrimp, as it can become tough. Warm the pasta and sauce together until heated through, then add the shrimp at the end just to warm through.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other types of pasta such as penne, linguine, or spaghetti. Choose your favorite pasta shape or use what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make a simple blend at home. Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Adjust the proportions to your taste preference, particularly the cayenne for spice level.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta, shrimp, and sausage, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Prepare the sauce but do not combine with the pasta until ready to serve. Reheat the sauce and combine with the pasta, shrimp, and sausage just before serving.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten up this dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. Additionally, using whole grain or vegetable-based pasta can add fiber and nutrients to the meal. You can also increase the amount of bell peppers and add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to bulk up the dish with fewer calories.
Conclusion:
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the South to your kitchen. With its creamy sauce and perfect blend of spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.
📖 Recipe:
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Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Recipe: A spicy and flavorful pasta dish combining succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and a creamy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the Bell Pepper: Incorporate the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Combine Everything: Return the shrimp and sausage to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
Side Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
