How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta With Sausage Recipe

Discover how to make Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage – a creamy, spicy dish that combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and Cajun seasoning. Perfect for dinner, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser with bold, delicious flavors!

Looking for more delicious pasta ideas? Check out our Best Cajun shrimp pasta alfredo or Creamy Cajun shrimp pasta with spinach

Shrimp and Beef Sausage

Both shrimp and beef sausage are crucial in this dish, as they bring unique flavors and textures. Shrimp, when cooked properly, offers a tender and slightly sweet taste that complements the spicy Cajun sauce beautifully. Beef sausage, on the other hand, adds a hearty, rich flavor with its smoky undertones, making the dish more filling and satisfying. The contrast between these two proteins creates a wonderful balance that k

Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp Pasta With Beef Sausage

To prepare Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and seasonings that bring out the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine while providing a rich, satisfying meal. Below is a list of the essential ingredients, along with their measurements, to make this dish.

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• You can use your preferred pasta, but long strands work best for this dish, as they help carry the sauce.

The Cajun Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Shrimp is the star of this dish. Opt for fresh, large shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you use frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking.
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• For sautéing the shrimp and giving them a nice golden color.
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• This blend typically contains paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. It brings the signature spice to the dish.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Adds a smoky depth to the shrimp, enhancing the Cajun flavor.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• For a deeper, savory base flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Season the shrimp according to your personal preference.

Cajun seasoning is a key ingredient in this recipe. If you want more recipes with Cajun seasoning blend, check out our Cajun shrimp pasta ingredients

The Beef Sausage:

• 2 beef sausages (about 8 oz / 225 g), sliced
• Choose a high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Smoked sausage or andouille sausage works great for this recipe as they have a rich, smoky flavor.

The Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• The butter will add richness to the sauce and help with sautéing the vegetables and spices.
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Adds additional moisture and flavor when cooking the sausage and vegetables.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
• The onion helps create a savory base for the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh garlic adds fragrance and depth to the dish.
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• The cream provides a rich, velvety texture for the sauce, balancing out the heat from the Cajun seasoning.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• Adds additional depth and moisture to the sauce. You can substitute with vegetable broth or seafood stock.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) diced tomatoes (optional)
• Tomatoes help cut through the richness and add a bit of tanginess to balance the sauce.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• A touch of Worcestershire sauce can add a savory, umami flavor that complements the sausage.

Seasoning and Garnishes:

• 1-2 tsp Cajun seasoning (for the sauce, if you want extra spice)
• Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Adds an earthy, aromatic note to the sauce.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• For garnish and a fresh pop of color.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• For topping the dish with a creamy, savory finish.
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• If you like extra heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the finished dish.

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (for extra crunch and color)
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for extra flavor and garnish)

Note on Customization

While these ingredients form the base of a classic Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage, feel free to customize the dish based on your taste. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, use different types of sausage (like turkey or chicken sausage), or even substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

With all these ingredients, you’ll be ready to make a flavorful, spicy, and satisfying meal that combines the best of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of pasta.

Step-by-Step Recipe to Prepare Cajun Shrimp Pasta With Beef Sausage

Preparing Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage is easier than you might think, and the process is quite straightforward. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make this flavorful, spicy, and satisfying dish. The recipe ensures that every component—from the perfectly cooked shrimp to the smoky sausage and creamy sauce—comes together beautifully. Let’s dive right into it!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta (about 8 oz or 225 g) and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm to the bite). Typically, this will take around 8–10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

1. Drain the pasta:

• Once cooked, drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

1. Set the pasta aside:

• After draining, toss the pasta with a little bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking, and set it aside.

2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Season the shrimp:

• While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp of smoked paprika (optional), and salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated in the seasoning.

1. Sauté the shrimp:

• Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan.
• Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook quickly. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3: Cook the Beef Sausage

1. Slice the sausage:

• Slice the beef sausage (about 8 oz or 225 g) into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.

1. Sauté the sausage:

• In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp of olive oil and place the sliced sausage into the pan.
• Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and crispy around the edges.
• Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside with the shrimp.

4: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté the vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp of butter. Once melted, add 1 small finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
• Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

1. Add the liquid ingredients:

• Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Stir the mixture to combine.
• If you like a bit of tang, you can add 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes at this point (optional). Stir everything well to combine.

1. Season the sauce:

• Add 1 tsp of Worcestershire sauce (optional) for extra depth of flavor, and season the sauce with an additional 1–2 tsp of Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp of dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. Simmer the sauce:

• Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. You can add some of the reserved pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

Step 5: Combine the Shrimp, Sausage, and Pasta

1. Add the shrimp and sausage back to the skillet:

• Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, return the cooked shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the sauce.

1. Add the pasta:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

1. Simmer together:

• Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some of the sauce and the shrimp and sausage to reheat.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving

1. Garnish and serve:

• Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• For a little extra heat, you can add red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.

1. Serve immediately:

• Transfer the pasta to serving plates and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or some roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking it can make it tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, and remove it from the pan as soon as it turns pink.
• Customize the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder sausage. You can also balance the spice by adding more cream or chicken broth to the sauce.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, fresh parsley, and good-quality sausage will elevate the flavors of this dish.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Following these steps, you’ll have a delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and creamy sauce is guaranteed to satisfy any craving!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef sausage in Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute chicken sausage or even grilled chicken for the beef sausage. Chicken sausage will offer a leaner alternative while still providing great flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken tends to cook a little faster than beef sausage.

2. Can I make Cajun Shrimp Pasta without heavy cream?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, milk, or even a non-dairy substitute like coconut milk or almond milk. For a richer taste without using cream, try using a combination of chicken broth and a little butter or olive oil to create a silky sauce.

3. Can I make Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage ahead of time?

Yes, Cajun Shrimp Pasta can be made ahead of time. You can cook the shrimp and sausage, prepare the sauce, and cook the pasta separately. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the dish on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

4. How can I reduce the spice level in this dish?

If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder sausage, like sweet Italian sausage. You can also remove or reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chili flakes in the seasoning mix. If the dish turns out too spicy, adding a dollop of sour cream or more cream can help tone down the heat.

5. Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free pasta is a great alternative if you follow a gluten-free diet. There are many types available, such as rice, quinoa, or corn-based pasta. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times than regular pasta.

6. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it’s important to keep a close eye on them while cooking. Sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. As soon as they’re done, remove them from the pan to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause uneven cooking.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Beef Sausage is a delightful, hearty dish that brings together bold, spicy flavors with creamy richness, offering a satisfying meal that will please any palate. With the perfect balance of shrimp, sausage, pasta, and a flavorful Cajun-spiced sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion, a weeknight dinner, or meal prep for the week, it’s a versatile and delicious option that’s sure to impress.

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