Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for weeknight comfort.
I made this Cajun sausage & shrimp Alfredo pasta skillet after a long day, craving something hearty but easy. The smoky sausage and succulent shrimp make every bite satisfying, while the creamy sauce pulls it all together for the perfect dinner.
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)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup)
- 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:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the andouille sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add onion and red bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. 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 & Toss:
- Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Save This skillet pasta is one my family asks for again and again—the kids love its creamy sauce, and we all enjoy piling our bowls high for cozy dinners together.
Required Tools
Large skillet, pot for boiling pasta, knife and cutting board, tongs or spatula
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. A lightly chilled Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the spicy, creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 31 g total fat, 45 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein
Save Let the skillet rest a minute before serving for the flavors to meld. This meal brings the spirit of Cajun comfort right to your table!
Recipe Guide
- → What type of sausage works best?
Andouille sausage is preferred for its smoky flavor, but smoked turkey or chicken sausage can be good substitutes.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Penne or fettuccine works well due to their ability to hold sauce, but other medium-size pasta shapes are suitable too.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat, or reduce it for a milder taste.
- → What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese can be used, though the sauce may be less rich.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients, including sausage, are gluten-free to accommodate gluten sensitivities.