There are few things more satisfying than a hearty bowl of pasta that brings together bold flavors, creamy sauce, and a little heat. Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage checks all those boxes and then some. It’s a dish that delivers layers of flavor in every bite—juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious sauce spiced just right with Cajun seasoning.
This recipe is a weeknight hero and a dinner-party showstopper rolled into one. It’s simple enough to make in under an hour, but it tastes like something you’d order from a New Orleans-inspired bistro. The best part? You can control the heat level, customize the ingredients, and make it exactly how you like.
Cajun food is known for its bold spices and comforting character, and this pasta captures that spirit beautifully. It combines the kick of Cajun seasoning with the richness of cream and parmesan, while the shrimp and sausage give it a hearty, meaty depth. Tossed with pasta, it’s a meal that feels indulgent and comforting yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of flavor – The Cajun seasoning adds smoky, spicy, and savory notes that take pasta to another level.
- Protein-packed – Juicy shrimp and sausage make this a filling and satisfying dish.
- Creamy yet light – The sauce is rich without being heavy, thanks to a balance of cream and broth.
- Versatile – Adjust the spice, use different sausages, or swap in veggies to make it your own.
- Quick and easy – Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe makes about 4–6 servings.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine work well)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet. Season shrimp with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together until coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve hot and enjoy a bowl of creamy, spicy Cajun goodness.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Use andouille sausage if you can – It adds authentic smoky flavor, but smoked sausage works as a substitute.
- Don’t overcook shrimp – They only need a couple of minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Adjust spice level – Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat, or reduce for a milder version.
- Use fresh parmesan – It melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-grated varieties.
- Save pasta water – It’s starchy and perfect for adjusting sauce consistency.
Flavor Variations
- Veggie boost – Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Tomato base – Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Cheesy version – Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
- Seafood medley – Swap half the shrimp for scallops or crawfish for a seafood spin.
- Lightened-up version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of smoked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and protein ahead, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne holds the sauce well, but fettuccine or linguine also work beautifully.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
Make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Nutrition Benefits
While Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a comfort dish, it also offers good nutrition. Shrimp provides lean protein and minerals like selenium and iodine. Sausage adds richness and protein but can be high in sodium, so consider using turkey sausage for a lighter option. Bell peppers and onions bring antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. When served with a portion of vegetables or a side salad, this dish becomes a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer – Freeze cooled pasta in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp too long, as it can overcook.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. It’s bold, flavorful, and hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and under an hour in the kitchen, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
The combination of smoky sausage, tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and pasta creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and maybe a slice of garlic bread on the side, and you’ve got a dinner that feels like a celebration.
So the next time you’re craving comfort food with a kick, skip the takeout and whip up a pot of Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage. It’s proof that bold flavors, creamy sauces, and simple ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable.