Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: A Satisfying Spicy Seafood Delight

Introduction

Indulge in the flavorful and satisfying Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta. This spicy seafood dish is a perfect combination of shrimp, sausage, and pasta, all seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Prepare the following ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and Andouille sausage, and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the shrimp is pink and the sausage is browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and sausage from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine, shrimp, and sausage to the pan. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

FAQ

Q: Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

A: Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper from the seasoning blend. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Yes, you can substitute the fettuccine with other pasta varieties such as penne, linguine, or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the specific pasta instructions.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp and sausage?

A: While it’s best to use fresh or uncooked shrimp and sausage to infuse the dish with flavor, you can use pre-cooked varieties. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the ingredients.

Q: What can I serve with Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta?

A: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables. The combination of flavors makes for a delightful and satisfying meal.