Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

Bring bold Southern flavor to your dinner table with this Cajun Shrimp Pasta. Juicy shrimp and smoky sausage pair with creamy, spiced sauce and tender pasta to create a dish that’s both indulgent and full of personality. With just the right amount of heat and richness, it’s a perfect one-pan meal for weeknights or guests.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Cook the Shrimp
   Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp 2 minutes per side until just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
   Add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned and crisped around the edges, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer sausage to the plate with the shrimp.
3. Cook Pasta
   While the sausage cooks, boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables
   Lower heat to medium and add more oil if necessary. Add onion, bell pepper, 4 tsp Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Make the Sauce
   Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
6. Finish the Dish
   Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add pasta and sausage to the skillet and toss to coat. Warm everything through, then gently fold in the shrimp. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve
   Dish up immediately and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp side salad if desired.