Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
If you’re craving a meal with bold flavors and a touch of heat, Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is the perfect choice. This dish combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and a rich Cajun seasoning to create a symphony of taste in every bite. The creamy pasta complements the spiciness, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this flavorful Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage.
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Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage Recipe Ingredients
Prepare to savor the Cajun flavors with the following ingredients for Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage:
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 12 ounces |
| Large shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1 pound |
| Andouille sausage (or smoked sausage) | 12 ounces |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (minced) |
| Bell peppers (red and green) | 1 each (diced) |
| Onion | 1 medium (diced) |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | Optional |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s proceed to make this delightful Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage!
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Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Shrimp and Sausage: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside. In the same pan, cook the sliced Andouille sausage until lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside with the shrimp.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and diced onion. Sauté until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.
- Season and Add Liquid: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat them evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Cream and Tomatoes: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Once the cream is fully incorporated, add the cherry tomatoes to the sauce. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Combine Shrimp, Sausage, and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp and sausage to the pan. Mix them with the creamy Cajun sauce until everything is well coated. Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure the pasta is coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat. If desired, garnish the Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage with fresh parsley for added freshness and color. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and enjoy the burst of flavors!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works well in this recipe, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, bowtie, or rigatoni for a delightful variation.
Is there a substitute for Andouille sausage?
Yes! If you can’t find Andouille sausage, you can use smoked sausage or any other spicy sausage that you prefer.
How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
Cajun seasoning typically has a medium level of spiciness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a little less Cajun seasoning or look for a mild version of the spice blend.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Thaw the shrimp completely before cooking them to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the pasta and shrimp before combining everything.
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the dish to make it even more flavorful and nutritious.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a delightful fusion of flavors that will excite your taste buds. With its blend of succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and zesty Cajun seasoning, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves bold and comforting cuisine.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined in this article, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the indulgence of Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage!
