Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With both shrimp and sausage, this pasta dish is filling and packed with protein.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.
- Versatile: You can customize the level of spiciness and switch up the type of pasta to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season and Cook Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and cook the sliced sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Return the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
- Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute shrimp and sausage with chicken or a combination of your favorite seafood.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
- Pasta Choices: Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free varieties to suit dietary preferences.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
FAQs
What type of sausage works best in this recipe?
Smoked andouille sausage is ideal due to its robust flavor, but any smoked sausage can be used.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, if using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end to prevent overcooking.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like sausage and seasonings, are gluten-free.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead and combine them before serving.
What can I serve alongside this pasta?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Maintain a low simmer and avoid boiling the sauce to keep it smooth.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Cream-based sauces can separate upon freezing; it’s not recommended to freeze this dish.
What other cheeses can I use?
A blend of Parmesan and Romano cheeses can enhance the flavor.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked; avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a delectable dish that brings together the best of Cajun and Italian cuisines. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with the bold flavors of shrimp and sausage makes it a standout meal that’s sure to impress. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a surefire hit.
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Alfredo Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the bold flavors of Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Alfredo Pasta. This creamy pasta dish features smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a spicy Cajun kick, all enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season and Cook Shrimp: Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and cook sausage slices until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in cream, Parmesan, remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot
Notes
- Protein Alternatives: Swap shrimp and sausage for chicken or seafood.
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning or add cayenne for more heat.
- Pasta Choices: Use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta to suit dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
