Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. This recipe brings the vibrant tastes of Louisiana cuisine to your dinner table. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this indulgent dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
• Salt for pasta water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Shrimp and Sausage:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces Andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

The Cooking Process

Cooking the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, and add salt to taste.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside.

Preparing the Shrimp and Sausage

1. In a mixing bowl, season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of olive oil.
3. Add the seasoned shrimp and sliced sausage to the skillet.
4. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turns pink and the sausage is slightly browned.
5. Remove the cooked shrimp and sausage from the skillet and set them aside.

Making the Creamy Cajun Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until they become tender.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combining the Pasta, Shrimp, Sausage, and Sauce

1. Return the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Add the cooked shrimp and sausage back to the skillet and gently combine.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to heat through and meld the flavors.

Serving Your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

1. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage hot, with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to the bayous of Louisiana. The creamy Cajun-spiced sauce complements the tender shrimp and smoky sausage, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or craving a taste of the South, this recipe is sure to please.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Absolutely! You can use your favorite pasta variety, such as linguine, fettuccine, or even penne.
2. Is Andouille sausage necessary, or can I use a different type of sausage?
   • While Andouille sausage is traditional, you can use any smoked or spicy sausage of your choice.
3. Is this dish very spicy?
   • The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning used. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor and add more to taste.
4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
   • If you use pre-cooked shrimp, add them to the skillet at the end, just to heat through, to avoid overcooking them.
5. What can I serve as a side dish with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
   • A simple green salad, garlic bread, or cornbread make excellent side dishes to complement this meal.

Source: whatsinthepan.com