Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: A Flavorful Journey into Southern Comfort

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is a vibrant, comforting dish that perfectly captures the bold flavors of Southern cuisine. Juicy shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and tender fettuccine are enveloped in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that combines Cajun seasonings, garlic, and Parmesan for a rich, indulgent experience. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet impressive, or for weekend meals that feel like a special treat.

What makes this pasta special is the balance of spice, creaminess, and hearty protein—every bite delivers layers of flavor, from the smoky sausage to the zesty Cajun-seasoned shrimp, all rounded out by the velvety Parmesan cream sauce.

Ingredients

Proteins:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced

Seasonings for Shrimp:

• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
• ½ tsp dried oregano

Pasta:

• 10 oz fettuccine pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2–3 cloves garlic, chopped

Sauce Ingredients:

• 4 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• ½ cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth, sodium-free
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan

Garnish:

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Oils & Cooking:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Cook the Shrimp

1. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, and oregano until evenly coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until opaque and just cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

2. Cook the Sausage

1. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy.
3. Remove the sausage and set aside with the shrimp.

3. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Sauté Vegetables

1. Lower heat to medium and add olive oil to the skillet.
2. Add sliced onion, red bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
3. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

5. Build the Sauce

1. Add chopped garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
3. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly while scraping up any browned bits.

6. Finish the Dish

1. Stir in the grated Parmesan until fully melted and incorporated.
2. Add the cooked pasta and sausage to the sauce, tossing to coat and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
3. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.

7. Serve

1. Plate the pasta and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve immediately while hot for maximum flavor.

Tips, Variations, and Storage

• Protein Variations: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein twist.
• Spice Level: Increase Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Vegetable Options: Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
• Cheese Swaps: Romano or Asiago can replace Parmesan for a slightly different flavor.
• Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Pairings

• Sides: Garlic bread, simple green salad, or roasted vegetables complement the creamy pasta.
• Optional Extras: Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Cuisine: Cajun / Southern Comfort