When I’m craving something bold, creamy, and packed with flavor, I always turn to this Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Pasta.

This dish is the perfect combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta.

It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and it always satisfies when I want a hearty, comforting dish with a kick.

This Cajun-inspired pasta is creamy, spicy, and loaded with protein from shrimp and sausage.

The flavors come together perfectly, with the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning balanced by the richness of the sauce.

It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep!

Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Pasta
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Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Pasta

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: Cajun / CreoleDifficulty: Easy to Moderate
Servings

4-6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

650-750

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Pasta & Protein

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 12 ounces large shrimp, peeled & deveined

  • 8 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds

  • For the Cajun Seasoning & Sauce

  • 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small bell pepper, diced (red or yellow for sweetness)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoon butter

  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  • Step 2: Cook the Shrimp & Sausage
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Season the shrimp with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning.
  • Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
  • Reduce heat to medium, then melt 2 tbsp butter in the same skillet.
  • Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
  • Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken for 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
  • Step 4: Combine & Serve
  • Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  • Let everything heat through for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Want it spicier? Add extra Cajun seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce.
  • Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to reduce calories.
  • More veggies? Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
  • Use different protein: Try grilled chicken or crawfish instead of shrimp for variety.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

  • Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.