Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Andouille Sausage

Description:

This flavorful Cajun shrimp pasta combines tender shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish brings a burst of Southern flavor with every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• Fettuccine or linguine pasta: 12 oz
• Shrimp: 1 pound (peeled and deveined)
• Andouille sausage: 2 links (sliced into rounds)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
• Bell pepper: 1 (diced)
• Yellow onion: 1 small (diced)
• Cajun seasoning: 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
• Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Ground thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional for extra spice)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Chicken broth: 1 cup
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
• Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup (grated)
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Fresh parsley: for garnish

Optional Ingredients:

• Fresh basil: for garnish
• Chopped green onions: for added freshness
• Sun-dried tomatoes: ½ cup (for extra flavor)

Tips for Success:

1. Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
2. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so add them at the end to avoid overcooking and making them rubbery.
3. Balance the spice: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference for heat and flavor.
4. Make ahead: This pasta dish can be made ahead and reheated for an easy meal the next day.

Steps to Make It:

1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook sausage: While pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
5. Make the sauce: Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, about 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Combine: Add the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, additional Parmesan, and lemon wedges.

Recommendations:

• Serving suggestion: Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a little extra cream or broth.
• Make it spicier: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 1/4 of Recipe):

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Andouille Sausage is packed with bold flavors, making it a deliciously satisfying dish that brings a taste of the South to your table!