Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage: A Spicy, Comforting Dinner in Just 40 Minutes
If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in under an hour, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is your new go-to dish. A perfect harmony of heat, creaminess, and savory depth, it brings together succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious Cajun-spiced cream sauce that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, planning a cozy date night in, or impressing guests with minimal effort, this one-pan pasta dinner is a crowd-pleaser that checks every box—flavor, speed, and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This dish is for everyone who loves bold, zesty flavors with a creamy twist. It combines the hearty feel of comfort food with the exciting kick of Cajun cuisine. Plus, it’s:
- Quick enough for a weeknight meal (ready in 40 minutes)
- Packed with protein from shrimp and sausage
- Easily customizable to your heat preference or dietary needs
- A one-skillet wonder with minimal cleanup
If you’re tired of boring pasta nights, this recipe will add a flavorful jolt to your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this irresistible pasta:
Protein:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 oz beef or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
Pasta:
- 10 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta shape)
Veggies & Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning:
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this dish, you’ll need the following tools:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander or strainer
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Sausage
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.
3️⃣ Sauté the Veggies
Add the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes or until they’re soft and fragrant.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice, salt, or pepper as desired.
5️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add it directly into the sauce.
6️⃣ Combine Everything
Return the shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Toss well until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
7️⃣ Serve and Garnish
Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Bon appétit!
Tips & Tricks for Best Results
- Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Smoked Andouille sausage is highly recommended for authentic Cajun flair.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Want it lighter? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream (for a dairy-free version).
- Gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta alternative.
Variations to Try
- Cajun Chicken Pasta – Swap the shrimp for grilled Cajun-spiced chicken breast.
- Vegetarian Cajun Pasta – Skip the shrimp and sausage, and load up on mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach instead.
- Low-Carb Version – Serve the sauce and toppings over spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over low-medium heat with a splash of chicken stock or cream to bring the sauce back to life. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
What to Serve With Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This dish is rich and filling on its own, but here are some complementary pairings:
Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread or crusty French baguette
- Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Grilled asparagus or sautéed green beans
Drink Pairings:
- Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc (for white wine lovers)
- Iced sweet tea for a Southern twist
- Crisp lager or wheat beer to balance the heat
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the veggies and proteins ahead to speed up cooking time.
Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
Cajun seasoning has a mild to moderate heat. Adjust to your taste by adding more or less, or mixing in extra paprika or cayenne for more kick.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Romano or Asiago, or omit for a dairy-free version.
Is this kid-friendly?
If your kids are sensitive to spice, reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a milder Creole blend.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is more than just a meal—it’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to make its way into your regular rotation. With its spicy, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and comforting pasta base, this dish delivers both comfort and excitement in every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for a special night in or just craving a dinner that’s far from ordinary, this dish delivers big flavor without the fuss.
