If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, creamy, and brimming with Louisiana-style flavor, look no further than Cajun-Style Creamy Shrimp and Sausage Pasta. This decadent, one-pot wonder combines tender shrimp, smoky Andouille sausage, and a rich Cajun-spiced cream sauce that coats every bite of pasta with irresistible flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
What Makes Cajun Pasta So Special?
Cajun cuisine is known for its soulful seasoning blends, hearty ingredients, and deep roots in Southern cooking. This dish captures that essence with a trifecta of textures and tastes: plump shrimp, savory sausage, and silky pasta tossed in a creamy, smoky sauce. Add bell peppers, garlic, onions, and Cajun spices to the mix, and you’ve got a dinner that’s bursting with character.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering dish:
- Shrimp – Large, peeled, and deveined
- Andouille sausage – Sliced; brings a smoky, spicy kick
- Pasta – Fettuccine, penne, or your favorite variety
- Heavy cream – For a luxuriously creamy sauce
- Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and creaminess
- Garlic & onion – Essential aromatics
- Bell peppers – Red, yellow, or green for color and crunch
- Cajun seasoning – Homemade or store-bought
- Olive oil & butter – For sautéing and richness
- Salt & pepper – To taste
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned. Add bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the pan and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese and a pat of butter. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with additional Cajun spices, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing everything until well-coated in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pan = Less Cleanup
- Perfect Balance of Heat and Creaminess
- Great for Meal Prep or Leftovers
- Customizable – Swap shrimp for chicken or go all-veggie!
Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add crushed red pepper flakes or an extra dash of hot sauce.
- Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or skip the sausage for a leaner dish.
- Go Gluten-Free: Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta — the sauce stays just as creamy and dreamy.
Final Thoughts
Cajun-Style Creamy Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is the kind of meal that hits all the right notes — comforting, spicy, and impossibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself to a flavorful dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Don’t forget to save this recipe, because you’ll want to make it again and again!
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