Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce is perfect for weeknight comfort.
I first made this skillet pasta for a cozy family dinner after a rainy day, and it instantly became a hit. The blend of smoky sausage and tender shrimp in a velvety sauce is always requested for comfort food nights.
Ingredients
- Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
- Shrimp: 225 g (8 oz), large, peeled and deveined
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fettuccine
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup), grated
- Chicken broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tbsp (plus extra to taste)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook 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.
- Brown the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add shrimp and 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning, then bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked pasta, browned sausage, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the sauce and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.
Save This recipe has become a staple at our family gatherings, always sparking smiles and lively conversation over second helpings.
Substitutions & Variations
You can swap the andouille sausage with smoked turkey sausage or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian spin, try using your favorite plant-based sausage and extra vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your pasta skillet with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. For drinks, pair with lightly chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 31 g total fat, 45 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein.
Save This Cajun-inspired pasta skillet comes together fast for busy nights and is sure to impress with its bold flavors and creamy sauce.
Cooking Guide
- → Can I substitute the andouille sausage?
Yes, smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives for a different flavor and lower fat content.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sausage contains no gluten ingredients for a gluten-free version.
- → How can I add more heat to this dish?
A pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce can be added to enhance the spiciness.
- → What pasta types work best for this skillet?
Penne or fettuccine are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well and complement the protein and vegetables.
- → How should the shrimp be prepared before cooking?
Use peeled and deveined shrimp to ensure even cooking and easy eating in the skillet.