Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Alfredo Pasta

Cajun shrimp and sausage Alfredo pasta is a creamy, spicy, and savory dish that’s bursting with flavor. Juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender pasta are tossed in a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce for a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Combines smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors in one dish.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta:

• Fettuccine or linguine (penne or rotini work too)
• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced
• Olive oil or butter
• Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Garlic, minced

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

• Bell peppers, diced
• Spinach or kale
• Mushrooms

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the 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, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Cook the Shrimp and Sausage:

2. Season the shrimp:
   • Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Cook the sausage:
   • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the shrimp:
   • In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

5. Prepare the sauce base:
   • Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the cream:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
7. Incorporate Parmesan:
   • Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve:

8. Add everything back:
   • Return the cooked shrimp, sausage, and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the Alfredo sauce.
9. Serve:
   • Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or green onions. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Spicy kick: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan.
• Seafood mix: Add scallops or crawfish alongside the shrimp for a seafood medley.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the cream-based sauce may separate when frozen.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, add pre-cooked shrimp during the final step to heat through without overcooking.

2. What’s the best sausage to use?

Andouille sausage is traditional for Cajun recipes, but smoked sausage or kielbasa works well too.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

4. How do I make it less spicy?

Use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount. Omit the cayenne if making your own blend.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Add a tablespoon of flour to the butter while making the sauce base for added thickness.

6. What pasta shapes work best?

Fettuccine, linguine, penne, or rotini are great choices for holding the creamy sauce.

7. Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes, Romano or Asiago cheese can be used for a different flavor profile.

8. What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use fresh cream and avoid boiling the sauce—simmer it gently instead.

10. Can I make this ahead of time?

Prepare the components (pasta, sauce, shrimp, and sausage) separately and combine just before serving for the freshest taste.

Conclusion

Cajun shrimp and sausage Alfredo pasta is a rich and satisfying meal packed with bold flavors and creamy textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, it’s sure to become a favorite. Customize it to your liking and enjoy this delicious fusion of Cajun spice and classic Alfredo comfort!

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