Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Alfredo Pasta combines the creamy richness of traditional Alfredo sauce with bold Cajun flavors. Tender shrimp and smoky sausage are seasoned with aromatic spices and cooked to perfection before being tossed with fettuccine and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb fettuccine or your preferred pasta
Protein and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Alfredo Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Cook Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced smoked or andouille sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned and heated through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside with the sausage.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing well.
- Combine Proteins with Sauce: Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, stirring to combine their flavors.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Final Heating: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium-low heat to heat the entire dish through, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute the sausage with andouille for a more authentic Cajun flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother and richer sauce.
- Ensure the shrimp is fully cooked through but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half though the sauce will be less rich.
