Description
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo with Sausage
Ingredients:
8 oz fettuccine
1 lb shrimp
8 oz sausage
3 garlic cloves
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups cream
1 cup Parmesan
Paprika, salt, pepper
Parsley
Directions:
Boil Pasta: Cook pasta to al dente.
Shrimp & Sausage: Sauté shrimp and sausage with Cajun spices.
Make Sauce: In the skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, and stir in cream, Parmesan, paprika, and seasonings.
Mix & Garnish: Add pasta, shrimp, and sausage. Top with parsley.
#CajunShrimpDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Peel and devein shrimp. Slice sausage into 1/2-inch rounds. Mince garlic cloves. Grate Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Sauté Proteins: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove mixture to a plate.
4. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in cream, then whisk in grated Parmesan until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine: Add the drained pasta and the reserved shrimp and sausage to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich pasta immediately while hot. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a vegetable side, consider garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the spicy Cajun flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish comes together by cooking pasta, sautéing Cajun-spiced shrimp and sausage, creating a creamy Parmesan sauce in the same pan, and combining all elements for a flavorful, one-pan meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Penne, linguine, or bowtie pasta all work well and hold the creamy sauce effectively.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning by half, or use a mild Italian sausage instead of Andouille to control the heat level.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but add them at the very end with the pasta just to warm through. Overcooking will make them rubbery.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour, though the sauce will be less rich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and curl to prevent toughness.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate fresh Parmesan for a smooth melt.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: The starchy water is crucial for adjusting the sauce consistency at the end. Don’t forget to save a cup before draining.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat or turn it to low before adding Parmesan to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming oily.
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. It masterfully combines creamy, spicy, and savory elements into a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a consistently delicious meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
