IngredientsFor the Pasta:8 oz penne, fusilli, or any short pastaFor the Cajun Mixture:1 pound medium shrimp , peeled and deveined1/2 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced into rounds2 tablespoons olive oil1 bell pepper , diced (any color works!)1 small onion , finely chopped2 cloves garlic , minced1 teaspoon paprika1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)1 teaspoon dried thyme1/2 teaspoon dried oreganoSalt and pepper , to taste1 cup chicken broth1/2 cup heavy cream1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauceJuice of 1 lemonOptional Garnish:Fresh parsley, choppedGreen onions, slicedStep-by-Step Instructions1. Cook the PastaBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.2. Prepare the Cajun BaseIn the same pot (no need to clean!), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and sauté until lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.3. Sauté Vegetables and ShrimpIn the same pot, add the diced bell pepper and onion. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.Increase the heat to high and add the shrimp. Season generously with paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the sausage.4. Create the SauceLower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Whisk together and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water for desired consistency.5. Combine EverythingReturn the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the pot. Toss everything together in the creamy Cajun sauce until fully coated. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.6. Serve HotDivide the Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage among plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added freshness and color. Pair with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.Tips for SuccessControl the Heat : Start with less cayenne pepper if you’re sensitive to spice, then adjust to taste.Use Quality Sausage : Smoked Andouille adds authentic Cajun flavor, but any quality smoked sausage will work well.Don’t Overcook the Shrimp : Shrimp cooks quickly—overcooking can lead to rubbery textures. Keep an eye on them during cooking!Add Veggies : Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition and variety.Final ThoughtsThis Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage brings the essence of New Orleans straight to your kitchen. Its rich, smoky flavors paired with tender shrimp and pasta create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether served as a main course or shared family-style, it’s sure to become a staple in your rotation. So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor every bite of this spicy delight!
Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
