Save A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce is perfect for weeknight comfort.
I first made this skillet pasta on a chilly evening when I was craving bold, comforting flavors but did not want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of smoky sausage, juicy shrimp, and creamy sauce was an instant hit.
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Ingredients
- Andouille sausage: 225 g (8 oz), sliced
- Shrimp: 225 g (8 oz) large, 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)
- 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
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, for garnish
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Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown 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.
- Add liquids:
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning; bring to a simmer.
- Make sauce:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and heat through:
- Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 2&3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Save Sitting down to eat this with my family on a busy weeknight brings everyone to the table in minutes. Everyone always asks for seconds, so I make sure to cook a little extra pasta just in case.
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Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread.
Substitutions & Variations
Use smoked turkey sausage or chicken for a twist, or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 590 calories, 31 g fat, 45 g carbohydrates, and 32 g protein.
Save 
This Cajun pasta is a true comfort food favorite—quick, rich, and so satisfying every single time.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute the andouille sausage?
Yes, smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage work well as alternatives while keeping a smoky flavor.
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Penne or fettuccine are ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce and offer great texture.
- → How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?
The seasoning provides a medium heat; adjust by adding cayenne or hot sauce to increase spice.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta makes it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor?
Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, herbal note that complements the creamy, spicy sauce.
