Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for weeknight comfort.
The first time I made this, my family couldn't stop raving about the combination of smoky sausage and tender shrimp in the creamy Cajun sauce. It's now requested whenever everyone needs a comforting, spicy pick-me-up after a busy day.
Ingredients
- Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
- Large shrimp: 225 g (8 oz), peeled and deveined
- Penne or fettuccine pasta: 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 per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add andouille sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Melt butter in the skillet. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sauté 2–3 minutes, until shrimp turn pink. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape browned bits. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning; bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in Parmesan until melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine & Heat Through:
- Add pasta, sausage, and shrimp. Toss to coat and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Top with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Save My kids love swirling their pasta through the creamy sauce and competing to find the most shrimp in their bowls. It's a dish that brings everyone back to the table without hesitation.
Required Tools
Large skillet, pot for boiling pasta, knife and cutting board, tongs or spatula.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan), shellfish (shrimp), and wheat (pasta). May contain gluten depending on sausage and pasta. Always verify labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 31 g total fat, 45 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein.
Save This skillet pasta is the easiest way to satisfy both comfort and Cajun cravings. Enjoy with garlic bread and a crisp salad for the ultimate dinner!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of sausage works best in this dish?
Andouille sausage provides a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the creamy sauce, but smoked turkey sausage can be a milder alternative.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes besides penne or fettuccine?
Yes, similar pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini work well as they hold the sauce nicely.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to increase heat according to your taste.
- → Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and verify the sausage ingredients to ensure the entire dish is gluten-free.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this Alfredo dish?
Fresh parsley garnish adds a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the sauce.