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If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s bursting with flavor, rich in texture, and ready to impress, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta has you covered. With smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, every bite delivers a satisfying kick that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana.
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, hearty proteins, and creamy indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or meal-prepping something satisfying for the week, this pasta recipe promises to deliver on every front.
Why Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta?
This is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s worth trying tonight:
Big Flavor, Minimal Effort: Cajun seasoning does the heavy lifting, turning everyday ingredients into something unforgettable.
Protein-Packed: Shrimp and sausage offer a powerful one-two punch of lean and smoky protein.
Creamy & Comforting: The sauce, made with heavy cream and Parmesan, wraps every bite in velvety indulgence.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
Perfect for Sharing: It’s hearty enough for a crowd and elegant enough for a date-night dinner.
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Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this bold and creamy pasta dish:
Pasta & Proteins
8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short-cut pasta)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
Vegetables
1 red bell pepper, diced
Optional: ½ green or yellow bell pepper, for color and variety
Sauce & Seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt & pepper, to taste
Garnishes
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp chopped green onions (scallions)
Optional Additions
A pinch of paprika for extra color
A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors
Read More: Baked Patty Pan Squash with Chicken, Rice, and Bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for a restaurant-quality pasta dish made right at home:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crisp, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Shrimp and Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in the shrimp and red bell pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until shrimp is heated through and peppers begin to soften. Remove from skillet and set aside with the sausage.
4. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Stir in Cajun seasoning, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything
Return the pasta, sausage, shrimp, and veggies to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions. Serve warm and enjoy the bold, comforting flavors!
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Tips and Substitutions
Make It Lighter:
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Try turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner protein.
Add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Make It Spicier:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use a spicier variety of Cajun or Creole seasoning.
Make It Dairy-Free:
Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk + cashew cream.
Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy, dairy-free option.
Read More: Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata
Recipe Variations
You can easily tweak this recipe to match your dietary preferences or spice things up:
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Substitute shrimp with grilled or pan-seared chicken breast.
Low-Carb Cajun Pasta: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of penne.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the shrimp and sausage, and load up on roasted vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, and asparagus.
One-Pot Style: Use a deep sauté pan and cook the pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth for fewer dishes.
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Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – approx. 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~550 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
| Vitamin A | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 35% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
Read More: Stuffed Chicken Breast with Veggies
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storing Leftovers:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce.
Serving Tips:
Serve with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
Pair with garlic bread or toasted whole grain baguette for a satisfying meal.
Garnish with extra herbs and grated Parmesan for a gourmet touch.
Planning meals for the week? This pasta reheats beautifully—perfect for batch cooking. And if you’re looking for more meal prep-friendly recipes, The Encyclopedia of Power Foods is your go-to guide.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before sautéing to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
Is there a non-spicy version?
Simply reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and use Italian herbs like basil and oregano for a milder flavor profile.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety—like brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.
What’s the best sausage for this recipe?
Smoked andouille is traditional and flavorful, but any pre-cooked sausage like kielbasa or turkey sausage works well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! It scales beautifully—just make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot and adjust cooking times slightly.
Conclusion
If you’re craving bold flavor, creamy texture, and serious satisfaction, this creamy cajun shrimp and sausage pasta is the dish that delivers it all. It’s easy enough for a quick weeknight meal yet rich and indulgent enough to impress guests. Whether you’re a fan of Southern comfort food or just love a good Cajun pasta recipe, this one hits every note—spicy, smoky, creamy, and comforting.
Best of all, it’s a flexible and forgiving recipe that can be adapted to your taste and pantry. So next time you need a crowd-pleasing shrimp and sausage dinner, skip the takeout and whip up this restaurant-worthy pasta right at home.
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