Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
This Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is packed with bold spices, creamy cheese, and tender shrimp for an irresistible, quick, and flavorful dinner.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great for holding the creamy sauce
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 oz turkey sausage sliced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped, red, yellow, or green
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp or mild
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add shrimp seasoned with half the Cajun seasoning and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with sausage.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper to skillet. Sauté about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Lower heat to medium. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and stir to combine with vegetables. Gradually add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Return shrimp and sausage to skillet. Toss in drained pasta and gently mix until pasta is coated with creamy Cajun cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.