Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels like a treat but comes together easily on a weeknight, Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is exactly what you need. This rich, creamy, and smoky pasta dish is packed with juicy shrimp, crispy bits of andouille or smoked sausage, and a bold Cajun-spiced cream sauce that brings everything together.

Whether you’re a spice lover or just craving something hearty and soul-satisfying, this dish checks all the boxes.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Shrimp & Sausage:

• 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 10 oz fettuccine pasta

• ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 4 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• 2–3 cloves garlic, chopped

• ½ cup crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup sodium-free chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Season & Sear the Shrimp

Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, and oregano until fully coated.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until just opaque and golden.
Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Add another small drizzle of oil to the skillet and add sliced sausage.
Cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and caramelized.
Remove from pan and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your proteins are cooking, boil a pot of salted water.
Cook fettuccine until al dente, according to package directions.
Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add more olive oil, then sauté onions, red bell pepper, remaining Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes, stirring to release all the delicious browned bits.

Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up all the browned bits. Let it bubble for 2–3 minutes.

Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Combine & Finish

Add cooked pasta and sausage to the sauce. Toss well to combine and warm through.
Add the cooked shrimp last, just to reheat without overcooking.
Season with extra salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately!

🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Flavor Explosion: Spicy, creamy, savory, and just the right touch of sweetness.

• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Ready in under an hour, with restaurant-quality taste.

• Customizable: Try it with chicken, scallops, or switch the pasta type for variety.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners, casual date nights, or meal prep.

🌿 Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the heat by using more or less Cajun seasoning depending on your spice tolerance.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and stay tender when just seared.

• Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also pair well if you want to change it up.

📝 Final Thoughts

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a chef without needing hours in the kitchen. With bold spices, comforting creaminess, and a satisfying mix of textures, it brings the best of Southern flavor to your table—fast.

Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular rotation in your meal plan. And if you’re feeling fancy, serve it with garlic bread and a chilled glass of white wine. 🍷