Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce is perfect for weeknight comfort. This dish brings the flavors of Cajun cuisine together in a comforting bowl the whole family will love.
The first time I created this Cajun Sausage & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Skillet, my family was amazed at how bold and flavorful it turned out. It instantly became a go-to choice for cozy nights, especially when everyone craved something comforting but quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
- Shrimp: 225 g (8 oz) large, peeled and deveined
- Penne or fettuccine: 300 g (10 oz)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup) grated
- Chicken broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tbsp (plus extra to taste)
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the andouille sausage for 3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Melt butter in the skillet. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 2 minutes until shrimp turn pink. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour chicken broth, scrape the pan, add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine:
- Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp. Toss to coat and heat through for 2 minutes.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley and serve hot.
Save Sharing this meal brings back memories of everyone gathering in the kitchen, sneaking tastes of the creamy sauce and fighting over extra shrimp. It adds warmth and laughter to chilly evenings.
Required Tools
You will need a large skillet, pot for boiling pasta, knife, cutting board, and tongs or a spatula to prepare this recipe best.
Allergen Information
The recipe contains dairy, shellfish, and wheat. Always check sausage and pasta packaging for potential gluten and ingredient variations.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 590 calories, 31 g of fat, 45 g of carbohydrates, and 32 g of protein, making it a hearty meal for four.
Save Enjoy this Cajun Sausage & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Skillet hot from the pan for the ultimate comfort. The leftovers taste even better the next day!
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta type works best?
Penne or fettuccine are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well and complement the sausage and shrimp.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, adding more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper can increase the heat, while reducing seasoning lowers it.
- → How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, typically 2-3 minutes, to keep them tender and juicy.
- → What substitutions can I make for sausage?
Smoked turkey sausage or chicken slices can be used as milder alternatives without losing flavor.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain texture.