Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
A comforting and indulgent pasta dish featuring spiced shrimp, andouille sausage, and a creamy sauce, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Pescatarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp or prawns
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Kosher salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz andouille sausage, sliced into coins
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 4 cups cooked penne pasta
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Toss well.
- Sear the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat half of the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until opaque and pink. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the Sausage: Stir in the sliced andouille sausage and cook for another 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Make the Sauce: Add heavy cream and tomato paste, whisk to combine. Season with salt and pepper and stir in the grated Parmesan until melted.
- Return the Shrimp & Spinach: Add cooked shrimp and baby spinach, stir until spinach wilts.
- Combine with Pasta: Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss until well combined.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the pasta garnished with extra Parmesan and Cajun seasoning.
Notes
Avoid overcooking the shrimp or pasta to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Find it online: https://us.recipesfood.org/creamy-cajun-shrimp-sausage-pasta/
