Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for weeknight comfort.
I made this dish for my family after a busy day, and everyone was delighted by the smoky sausage and tender shrimp nestled in the luxurious sauce. It quickly became a favorite on our weeknight menu.
Ingredients
- Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
- Large shrimp: 225 g (8 oz), peeled and deveined
- Penne or fettuccine: 300 g (10 oz)
- Small onion: finely chopped
- Red bell pepper: sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup), grated
- Chicken broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tbsp (plus extra to taste)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the andouille sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add onion and red bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook shrimp:
- Add the shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning; bring to a simmer.
- Add cheese:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine:
- Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when I serve this, and it's especially fun to share around the table with garlic bread and salad. It's a comforting meal that brings everyone together.
Required Tools
Large skillet, pot for boiling pasta, knife and cutting board, tongs or spatula.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy, shellfish, and wheat, and may have gluten depending on sausage and pasta choices. Always check labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 590, Total Fat: 31 g, Carbohydrates: 45 g, Protein: 32 g
Save Savor this rich, flavorful Cajun pasta skillet for a comforting weeknight dinner. The leftovers are just as tasty the next day!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?
Yes, smoked chicken or turkey sausage can replace shrimp for a different flavor profile while keeping Cajun notes.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and double-check sausage ingredients to make the meal suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Penne and fettuccine hold up well to the creamy sauce, but rigatoni and linguine are also tasty alternatives.
- → How can I add more heat?
Include extra Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- → Can I make it ahead?
Assemble the skillet the day before and gently reheat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s texture.