Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Alfredo Pasta combines creamy Parmesan sauce with perfectly seasoned shrimp and smoky sausage for a hearty and flavorful Cajun-inspired dinner. The fettuccine pasta is tossed in a rich, buttery Alfredo sauce spiced up with Cajun seasoning and paprika, making for a satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
Seasoning and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside with the shrimp.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Heat Through: Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the ingredients are evenly combined. Allow to cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes so everything is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a bright, fresh finish. Serve the dish warm and enjoy your flavorful Cajun-inspired shrimp and sausage Alfredo pasta.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier dish.
- For added color and nutrients, sauté diced bell peppers or fresh spinach along with the garlic.
- This pasta reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for next-day leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
