Cajun Sausage Shrimp Alfredo

A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce is perfect for weeknight comfort.

I first made this skillet pasta for a cozy family dinner after a rainy day, and it instantly became a hit. The blend of smoky sausage and tender shrimp in a velvety sauce is always requested for comfort food nights.

Ingredients

• Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
• Shrimp: 225 g (8 oz), large, peeled and deveined
• Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fettuccine
• Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
• Red bell pepper: 1, 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:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Sausage:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Cook Shrimp:

Add shrimp and 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Make Sauce:

Pour chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning, then bring to a simmer.

Add Cheese:

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine:

Add the cooked pasta, browned sausage, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the sauce and heat through for 2–3 minutes.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.

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This recipe has become a staple at our family gatherings, always sparking smiles and lively conversation over second helpings.

Substitutions & Variations

You can swap the andouille sausage with smoked turkey sausage or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian spin, try using your favorite plant-based sausage and extra vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your pasta skillet with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. For drinks, pair with lightly chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 590 calories, 31 g total fat, 45 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein.

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This Cajun-inspired pasta skillet comes together fast for busy nights and is sure to impress with its bold flavors and creamy sauce.

Cooking Guide

→ Can I substitute the andouille sausage?

Yes, smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives for a different flavor and lower fat content.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sausage contains no gluten ingredients for a gluten-free version.

→ How can I add more heat to this dish?

A pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce can be added to enhance the spiciness.

→ What pasta types work best for this skillet?

Penne or fettuccine are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well and complement the protein and vegetables.

→ How should the shrimp be prepared before cooking?

Use peeled and deveined shrimp to ensure even cooking and easy eating in the skillet.