Description
Shrimp & Sausage Pasta in Creamy Cajun Sauce
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
12 oz fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion (chopped)
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Sausage: In the same pan, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked sausage, shrimp, and pasta to the pan, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy shrimp and sausage pasta!
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Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed sequence. First, prep all ingredients before heating your pan: chop vegetables, slice sausage, and season shrimp. Start boiling your pasta water—heavily salt it like seawater. While pasta cooks, begin cooking shrimp in your large skillet. After removing shrimp, brown the sausage to build fond in the pan. Sauté vegetables until onions are translucent. When making the sauce, let the chicken broth simmer for 2 minutes before adding cream to reduce properly. Finally, combine all components off the heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a complete meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the cream. For a Southern touch, serve with crusty garlic bread or cornbread. A chilled, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a pale ale complements the spicy Cajun flavors perfectly. Garnish with not just parsley, but also a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta. Sauté seasoned shrimp and set aside. Brown sausage and set aside. Sauté onion, pepper, and garlic. Create sauce with broth, cream, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer to thicken. Return shrimp, sausage, and pasta to pan. Toss to coat, garnish, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Yes, chicken or scallops work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Use a mild or low-sodium Cajun seasoning, or make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, and oregano, omitting cayenne.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, use half-and-half mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickening, though the sauce will be less rich.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The components can be prepped ahead, but combine and reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce and overcooking the shrimp.
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 broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: They cook quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Underseasoning the pasta water: This is your chance to season the pasta itself.
- Adding cream to boiling liquid: Let the broth simmer first to prevent the cream from separating.
- Crowding the pan: Cook shrimp and sausage in batches if needed to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan that contains anti-caking agents: These can prevent smooth melting into the sauce.
Conclusion
This Shrimp & Sausage Pasta in Creamy Cajun Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that brings bold, comforting flavors to your table with straightforward techniques. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced meal with tender shrimp, savory sausage, and a luxuriously creamy sauce. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!