Enjoy pure bliss with this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta with sausage—an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner packed with spice, comfort, and bold Southern flair.
Have you ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and packed with bold, smoky flavor? This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage might just become your new go-to for weeknight indulgence. Blending tender shrimp, spicy Andouille sausage, and a rich Cajun cream sauce over perfectly cooked pasta, it brings all the heat and heart of Southern-style comfort food to your table—with surprisingly little effort.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing dinner guests, this one-pot wonder delivers a satisfying balance of spice, creaminess, and savory depth. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize. Add some bell peppers for a veggie boost or tone down the heat for a more kid-friendly twist.
If you’re curious about the rich Cajun cooking traditions behind this flavor-packed recipe, check out National Geographic’s overview of Cajun food culture to get inspired by the history and authenticity of the cuisine.
Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to devour.
what is Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish made with tender shrimp, pasta (like fettuccine or penne), and a creamy sauce infused with Cajun seasoning. It’s a Southern-inspired comfort food that combines smoky, spicy flavors with a smooth, velvety texture. Often, it includes extras like Andouille sausage, bell peppers, garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Cajun Seasoning: A bold blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. It gives the dish its signature kick and depth.
- Creamy Sauce: Made with heavy cream, butter, and cheese—this balances the heat with richness.
- Shrimp: Juicy, quick-cooking, and perfect for soaking up all those spices.
- Pasta: Acts as the base, bringing it all together in a hearty, satisfying bowl.
Why People Love It:
- It’s quick—often done in under 30 minutes.
- It delivers restaurant-style taste with simple ingredients.
- It’s highly customizable (add sausage, veggies, or swap in chicken).
In short, it’s a spicy, creamy, crowd-pleasing pasta dish that brings a little Louisiana flair to your dinner table.
Key Benefits of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
If you’re looking for a meal that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage checks all the boxes. It’s the kind of dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant—but comes together right in your own kitchen. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- One-Pot Wonder
This flavorful pasta cooks up quickly in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights. - Bold Cajun Flavor
The smoky, spicy kick from authentic Cajun seasoning pairs perfectly with the rich cream sauce and savory Andouille sausage. Not sure what makes andouille sausage special? Learn more about this classic ingredient on Serious Eats. It’s bold, satisfying, and downright addictive. - Fast & Fuss-Free
Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s ideal when you want something hearty without spending hours cooking. - Versatile & Customizable
Don’t you like shrimp? Swap it with chicken. Want more veggies? Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. This dish adapts to your cravings and pantry staples. - Comfort Food with a Kick
The creamy pasta combined with Cajun spice creates a soul-warming meal with just enough heat—ideal for chilly evenings or whenever you want a flavorful food hug.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual entertaining, or even meal-prepping lunches that reheat beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need for a Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, spicy Cajun shrimp pasta come to life:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | 12 oz (340 g) | Fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type |
| Shrimp | 1 lb (450 g) | Peeled and deveined |
| Andouille Sausage | 8 oz (225 g) | Sliced into rounds |
| Cajun Seasoning | 2 tbsp | Adjust to taste |
| Olive Oil or Butter | 3 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Onion | 1 small, chopped | Yellow or white |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Fresh for best flavor |
| Red Bell Pepper (optional) | 1, sliced | Adds sweetness and color |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | For a rich, creamy sauce |
| Chicken Broth | 1 cup | Adds depth to the sauce |
| Parmesan Cheese | ½ cup, grated | For creaminess and umami |
| Salt and Black Pepper | To taste | Adjust at the end |
| Fresh Parsley | For garnish | Optional but adds color and freshness |
| Lemon Wedges (optional) | For serving | Adds brightness |
Wondering how to cook the perfect pasta for this recipe? America’s Test Kitchen has great tips to ensure it’s cooked al dente every time.
How to Assemble Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Let me walk you through the process step-by-step. This recipe is approachable even if you’re new to Cajun cooking:
- Cook the 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, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. - Prepare the shrimp and sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Add shrimp to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the shrimp. - Sauté vegetables:
Lower heat to medium, add remaining olive oil or butter, then sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened, about 3-4 minutes. - Make the creamy Cajun sauce:
Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly—about 5 minutes. - Combine everything.
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. - Finish with cheese and garnish:
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty brightness if you like.
For those who want to learn more about Cajun seasoning—its ingredients and how to make your own—this Spruce Eats guide on Cajun seasoning is a fantastic resource.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the Cajun seasoning or omit spicy sausage. For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
- Swap proteins: Chicken, scallops, or even tofu work well as alternatives to shrimp.
- Veggie boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- Lighten it up: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to keep it gluten-free without losing flavor.
- Make it ahead: The sauce reheats beautifully—store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Shrimp isn’t just delicious; it’s a great source of lean protein and nutrients. For more on the health benefits of shrimp, check out Healthline’s detailed nutrition guide.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta with:
- Garlic bread or a crusty French baguette to soak up every last bit of sauce.
- A fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a crisp contrast.
- A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy spice perfectly.
- Lemon wedges for guests to squeeze on top, adding a fresh burst of acidity.
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is the perfect blend of comfort and spice, combining bold Cajun flavors with a luscious cream sauce and tender pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with ease and speed. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s pure bliss in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Q: What type of sausage is best for Cajun pasta?
A: Andouille sausage is traditional, thanks to its smoky, spicy flavor. Kielbasa or smoked sausage can be used as substitutes.
Q: Is this dish very spicy?
A: The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning and sausage choice. You can adjust seasoning to make it milder or spicier.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Q: How long does leftover Cajun shrimp pasta last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Recipe Recap: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | ~620 kcal per serving |
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 620 | Fat: 30g | Protein: 32g | Carbs: 50g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 980mg
Recipe Classification:
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern, American
- Diet: Balanced, High-Protein
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
- Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate