Pin it A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for weeknight comfort.
I love making this skillet when I want something hearty yet quick it never disappoints.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 225 g (8 oz) andouille sausage sliced 225 g (8 oz) large shrimp peeled and deveined
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fettuccine
- Vegetables: 1 small onion finely chopped 1 red bell pepper sliced 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese 120 ml (½ cup) chicken broth
- Seasonings: 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste) Salt and black pepper to taste 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente Drain and set aside
- Cook 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 Ingredients:
- Add cooked pasta sausage and shrimp to the skillet Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 2–3 minutes
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot
Pin it This recipe brings my family together especially on busy weeknights when everyone craves a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this skillet with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that complements the rich flavors.
Variations
Substitute smoked turkey sausage or chicken for a different protein or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days reheat gently on the stove.
Pin it This flavorful Cajun sausage and shrimp Alfredo skillet is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of sausage works best in this dish?
Andouille sausage is preferred for its smoky, spicy flavor, but smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce enhances the heat without overwhelming the creamy sauce.
- → What pasta types are suitable for this skillet?
Penne and fettuccine both work well as they hold the sauce nicely and complement the sturdy ingredients.
- → Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure the sausage is gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Sauté the shrimp briefly until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes; this keeps them tender and juicy.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A crisp green salad and garlic bread complement the creamy, spicy flavors and add texture contrast.