Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: A Spicy and Satisfying Weeknight Dinner

If you’re in the mood for a flavorful and comforting meal that’s quick to whip up, this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is just what you need. Packed with bold Cajun spices, succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a perfect blend of hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or want something special for a cozy night in, this pasta dish delivers a satisfying kick with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta:

• 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta of your choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb (225 g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large shallot, finely diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 cup half and half
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• A handful of fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 10.5 oz (300 g) of pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp and Sausage

1. Cook the Shrimp:
   In a large, deep pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ lb (225 g) of peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
   In the same pan, add ½ lb (225 g) of sliced smoked sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside.

3. Build the Sauce

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pan, add 1 finely diced shallot and 1 sliced red bell pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften. Add 2 chopped garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Seasoning:
   Stir in 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for about 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
3. Deglaze and Simmer:
   Pour in 1 ½ cups of low-sodium chicken stock, stirring to deglaze the pan and dissolve the tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Finish the Sauce:
   Stir in 1 cup of half and half, allowing the sauce to bubble gently for 2-3 minutes over low heat.

4. Combine and Serve

1. Return the Shrimp and Sausage:
   Add the cooked shrimp and smoked sausage back to the pan. Stir to combine and coat them in the sauce.
2. Toss the Pasta:
   Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Add Final Touches:
   Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of fresh parsley. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and the remaining Cajun seasoning to taste.
4. Serve:
   Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy. The combination of smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and creamy, spicy sauce makes for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend treat, this pasta is a delicious way to bring a little Cajun flair to your table.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

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