Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce is perfect for weeknight comfort and sure to satisfy everyone around the table.
The first time I made this meal for my family, everyone raved about the creamy sauce and bold Cajun spices, all made in under an hour—it quickly became our go-to pasta for cozy nights.
Ingredients
- Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
- Large shrimp: 225 g (8 oz), peeled and deveined
- Penne or fettuccine: 300 g (10 oz)
- 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:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Brown sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook andouille sausage for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Melt butter in the skillet, then sauté onion and red bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook shrimp:
- Add shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning to skillet; sauté for 2–3 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Make sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits; add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Finish sauce:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine:
- Add pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss with sauce and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve:
- Top with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Save We love gathering in the kitchen as the bold aroma of Cajun spices fills the air—serving this pasta is always an occasion for laughter and togetherness.
Required Tools
Large skillet, pot for boiling pasta, knife, cutting board, tongs or spatula
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 590, Total Fat 31 g, Carbohydrates 45 g, Protein 32 g
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread, and enjoy with a lightly chilled Chardonnay for the best weeknight dinner.
Save This Cajun pasta skillet brings hearty comfort and just the right amount of spice—you'll want to make it again and again.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Yes, smoked turkey sausage or chicken can be used as alternatives to andouille, tailoring the dish to your preference.
- → What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Penne or fettuccine are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well, but other similar shapes can also be used.
- → How do I add extra heat to the dish?
Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to intensify the spiciness.
- → Is it possible to prepare a gluten-free version?
Yes, substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta maintains flavor while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
- → What sides complement this creamy, spicy pasta skillet?
A crisp green salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments, balancing richness and adding texture.