Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Southern Classic

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2. Season the shrimp
   In a bowl, toss the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning. Set aside to marinate for a few minutes.

3. Cook the sausage
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.

4. Sear the shrimp
   In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

5. Sauté the vegetables
   Lower the heat to medium. Add butter, onions, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

6. Make the creamy Cajun sauce
   Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste (if using), and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Combine everything
   Add the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.

8. Garnish and serve
   Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning for a final flavor boost. Serve hot and enjoy!

🍽️ Tips for Success

• Balance the spice: Adjust cayenne and Cajun seasoning to your heat preference.

• Use quality sausage: Authentic andouille sausage gives the best smoky flavor, but kielbasa works well too.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They only need a couple of minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

• Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make great additions for extra color and nutrition.

🧄 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

• Pair with a green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

• For extra indulgence, top with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of hot sauce.

✨ Final Thoughts

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is the perfect example of Southern comfort done right — spicy, creamy, and bursting with bold, smoky flavor. It’s a dish that feels festive yet simple enough for a weeknight. Every forkful delivers a taste of Louisiana charm, from the perfectly seasoned shrimp to the rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

It’s comfort food with a kick — and once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds every time.