Masters of kitchen
If there’s one dish that knows how to bring the heat and the comfort, it’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage. This flavor-packed Southern classic combines spicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and a creamy Cajun sauce that clings to every twist of pasta. It’s soulful, bold, and oh-so satisfying.
Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Louisiana, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience right from your own kitchen. The smell alone—garlicky, peppery, and buttery—will have your family hovering around the stove asking, “Is it ready yet?”
Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly night or looking to impress dinner guests, this one-pan wonder has your back. In this article, you’ll learn how to choose the best shrimp and sausage, build the perfect sauce, and tweak the spice level to your taste. Trust us—after one bite, this dish might just become your new weeknight go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
This dish is everything you want in a comforting dinner—quick, easy, and full of bold Cajun flavor. The smoky sausage and tender shrimp bring a hearty, satisfying bite, while the creamy sauce ties it all together in a rich, spicy embrace. It’s the perfect example of a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.
Busy night? This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes. Date night in? The flavors are impressive enough to wow. Weeknight family dinner? Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
The secret is in the creamy Cajun sauce—a garlicky, peppery blend that’s savory with a little kick. You can make it as mild or spicy as you like, depending on your heat tolerance. Want to make it extra cheesy? Toss in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan. This recipe is flexible, flavorful, and downright addictive.
What Makes This Recipe Authentic Yet Simple
Authentic Southern cooking is all about flavor—and this Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage keeps things true to its roots without getting too fussy. The magic starts with Cajun seasoning, a smoky blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs that delivers bold flavor in every bite.
By combining shrimp and sausage, you’re tapping into two staples of Louisiana cooking. The shrimp offers that sweet seafood tenderness, while the sausage brings smoky depth and spice.
Best of all, this dish uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have. No need to hunt down rare spices or specialty items. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing pasta dinner that delivers big on taste and comfort. And the best part? You can use whatever pasta you have in the pantry—penne, linguine, or even spaghetti.
How to Choose the Best Shrimp and Sausage for Cajun Pasta Recipe
To really make this dish sing, start with quality shrimp. Fresh is ideal, but frozen works just as well—just make sure they’re peeled and deveined. Medium to jumbo shrimp are best for this recipe; they hold up well to sautéing and deliver a meaty bite.
Don’t skip the deveining step—it’s quick and keeps the texture clean. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water for quick results.
Next, the sausage. Authentic Cajun recipes often call for Andouille sausage, known for its smoky, spicy flavor. If you can’t find it, a good quality smoked sausage will still do wonders. Slice it on the bias for more surface area and pan-sear it until browned—this adds rich, caramelized flavor to the entire dish.
Pro Tip: Use jumbo shrimp and smoked Andouille for a rich, meaty bite that stands up to the bold Cajun sauce.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick glance at the key players in this bold, creamy pasta dish:
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Shrimp – peeled, deveined, medium to large size
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Sausage – Andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
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Cajun seasoning – store-bought or homemade
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Heavy cream – for that luscious, silky sauce
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Parmesan cheese – freshly grated works best
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Garlic – fresh cloves for maximum aroma
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Pasta – penne, fettuccine, or whatever you have
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Olive oil or butter – for sautéing
Optional garnishes include fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or an extra sprinkle of Cajun spice for heat lovers.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage (Step-by-Step)
Making this dish is easier than it looks—just follow these simple steps for a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add your sausage slices and cook until browned and crispy on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In the same pan, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Lower the heat and add a little more butter if needed. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up all those flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Adjust
Stir in grated Parmesan until melted. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the pasta, shrimp, and sausage back into the pan. Toss everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Quick Tips for the Best Results
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Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook fast and turn rubbery if left too long
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Brown the sausage well—that caramelization adds amazing depth
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Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much
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Toss the pasta last-minute, just before serving, to keep it fresh and al dente
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Want it spicier? Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to taste!
Easy Variations on Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta You’ll Love
One of the best things about this Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs or just want to mix it up, here are some creative ways to make it your own:
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Spicy Version: Love the heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or toss in sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick. A few drops of hot sauce stirred into the cream sauce also does the trick.
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Low-Carb Option: Swap out the traditional pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a lighter, carb-conscious version.
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Cream-Free: Want to keep things lighter? Skip the cream and use a combo of olive oil and pasta water for a lighter, brothy sauce with Cajun flair.
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Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted cherry tomatoes to boost flavor and nutrition.
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Extra Cheesy: For serious comfort food vibes, stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a handful of your favorite melting cheese before serving.
This dish is all about balance—bold Cajun spice, creamy comfort, and your own personal twist.
Serving Ideas for Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Sausage
Pair this hearty pasta with a few classic sides to round out your Cajun-inspired feast:
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Garlic bread or a slice of buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up that rich sauce.
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A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or Southern-style coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast.
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For drinks, keep it simple: sweet tea or a cold glass of lemonade hits the spot.
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Want to elevate the meal? Serve it with a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—these wines cut through the richness of the sauce beautifully.
This dish shines as the star of the table, but these pairings help it sing in harmony.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Got leftovers? You’re in luck—Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage stores and reheats beautifully with a few simple tricks.
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life.
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Avoid microwaving for too long, especially the shrimp—they can dry out quickly. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir in between.
While best enjoyed fresh, a careful reheat keeps those creamy, spicy flavors just as irresistible the next day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple dish like this has a few traps that can dull the flavor. Avoid these common mistakes:
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Overcooking shrimp – they only need a couple of minutes per side!
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Over-seasoning – Cajun seasoning is salty; taste as you go.
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Letting pasta sit in sauce too long – it can absorb the sauce and become mushy.
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Skipping the deglazing step – those browned bits at the bottom of the pan hold serious flavor. A splash of cream or broth lifts them into the sauce.
Stick to the steps and you’ll get bold, balanced flavor every time.
Is This Dish Spicy? How to Adjust Heat Levels
Despite its name, Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage doesn’t have to be super spicy—unless you want it to be.
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Use a mild Cajun seasoning or make your own blend to control the heat.
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For a gentle kick, add a dash of black pepper or paprika instead of cayenne.
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Want to dial it up? Sprinkle in chili flakes or serve with hot sauce on the side so everyone can adjust to their own spice preference.
It’s all about customizing it to your comfort zone.
FAQs About Making Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage at Home
What is Cajun seasoning made of?
Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Some blends may add white pepper or dried herbs for extra depth.
Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs are a great substitute. Slice into bite-sized pieces and cook them just like the shrimp—seasoned and sautéed until golden.
What pasta works best with Cajun shrimp and sausage?
Penne, linguine, or fettuccine are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well. You can also use gluten-free pasta or even whole wheat if preferred.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream, almond cooking milk, or another non-dairy substitute for the cream. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor if you’re skipping Parmesan.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, store the sauce separately from the pasta and combine just before reheating. This helps prevent sogginess and keeps the flavors fresh.
Is this Cajun or Creole cuisine?
It leans Cajun, thanks to the emphasis on spice and sausage. But it borrows some Creole traits too—like the creamy sauce. The beauty of Southern food is how deliciously blended it can be.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot for pasta
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Knife and cutting board
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Proteins
- 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz 225g Andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced
For the Cajun Flavor
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for extra color
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 240 ml heavy cream
- ½ cup 50g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water optional, for thinning sauce
For the Pasta
- 8 oz 225g penne, fettuccine, or pasta of your choice
- Water + salt for boiling pasta
For Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Extra Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes if desired
- Lemon wedges optional for brightness
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Brown Sausage: In a large skillet, heat oil and brown sausage slices on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: Add butter and seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Lower heat. Add garlic and sauté. Pour in cream and scrape up brown bits. Simmer briefly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan and let it melt. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Combine: Add pasta, shrimp, and sausage. Toss to coat and simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with parsley or extra Cajun seasoning and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp—just thaw completely and pat dry.
- Can be made mild or spicy based on your Cajun seasoning blend.
- If prepping ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately for best texture.
- Great for leftovers: add a splash of cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
Final Thoughts + Invite to Try It Tonight
Ready to turn up the flavor in your kitchen? This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is bold, creamy, and guaranteed to satisfy. It’s perfect for when you want comfort food with a spicy twist and plenty of soul.
Give it a try tonight and see why it’s become a weeknight favorite for so many home cooks. Don’t forget to share your creation—leave a comment, drop a review, or tag us on social media. We love seeing your delicious results!