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Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage and Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour (if using) and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Stir to coat with the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch.
Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Note :
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional few minutes until thickened.
Serving Suggestions :
This Creamy Cajun Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For added texture, serve with crusty garlic bread or a side of freshly baked rolls.
Tips
Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
For extra creaminess, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
If you don’t have Andouille sausage, you can use any spicy sausage or chorizo as a substitute.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 600
Protein: 30 g
Sodium: 1200 mg
FAQs :
Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, feel free to substitute fettuccine or penne with your favorite pasta shape. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving. Be sure to add a little extra cream or broth when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
How can I make this recipe lighter? For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of sausage or use a leaner sausage option.
Conclusion :
Creamy Cajun Pasta with Succulent Shrimp and Spicy Sausage is a delightful dish that delivers both comfort and a kick of flavor. The combination of creamy sauce, spicy sausage, and tender shrimp makes it a standout meal for any occasion. With simple preparation and robust flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a go-to favorite for your dinner table.