Pin it A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce&mdashperfect for weeknight comfort.
This dish has become my go-to for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly yet feels indulgent and flavorful.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 225 g (8 oz) andouille sausage sliced, 225 g (8 oz) large shrimp peeled and deveined
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fettuccine
- Vegetables: 1 small onion finely chopped, 1 red bell pepper sliced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 120 ml (½ cup) chicken broth
- Seasonings: 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste), Salt and black pepper to taste, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dent Drain and set aside
- Cook Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the andouille sausage and cook for 34 minutes until browned Remove and set aside
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter Add onion and red bell pepper sauté for 34 minutes until softened Add garlic and cook for 1 minute
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Sauté for 23 minutes until the shrimp turn pink Remove shrimp and set aside
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning bring to a simmer
- Finish Sauce:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth Season with salt and pepper
- Combine:
- Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 23 minutes
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot
Pin it My family loves gathering around the table to share this hearty and flavorful meal especially during chilly evenings.
Required Tools
Large skillet, pot for boiling pasta, knife and cutting board, tongs or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan), shellfish (shrimp), and wheat (pasta). May contain gluten depending on sausage and pasta used. Double-check all labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 590, Total Fat 31 g, Carbohydrates 45 g, Protein 32 g
Pin it This Cajun Sausage & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Skillet is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What is the best sausage to use?
Andouille sausage is ideal for its smoky and spicy flavor, but smoked turkey or chicken sausage works well as alternatives.
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Penne or fettuccine are recommended for holding the sauce, but any firm pasta shape that holds sauce works nicely.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness?
Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or reduce seasoning to moderate spice levels.
- → Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Yes, substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta allows for a gluten-free variation without sacrificing texture.
- → What sides complement this dish?
A crisp green salad and garlic bread balance the creamy and spicy flavors, while a chilled Chardonnay pairs nicely.