Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of Southern flavors with our Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta. This recipe is a celebration of bold Cajun spices, succulent shrimp, and savory smoked sausage, all brought together in a luscious, creamy sauce. The medley of fresh vegetables adds a burst of color and freshness, creating a pasta dish that’s not just a meal but an experience. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, answer frequently asked questions, provide cook notes, offer variations, and present keto and low-carb versions for those seeking a lighter option.
Ingredients
Meat:
- 1/2 lb Sausage, fully-cooked smoked
Seafood:
- 1/2 lb Shrimp, raw
Produce:
- 1 cup Celery
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2/3 cup Green bell pepper
- 1 Lemon, slices
- 1 Onion, medium
- 1 Parsley, Fresh
- 2/3 cup Red bell pepper
Canned Goods:
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth
Pasta & Grains:
- 12 oz Spaghetti, cooked
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 1 Salt
Dairy:
- 1/4 cup Butter, unsalted
- 1/2 cup Cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and devein the raw shrimp.
- Finely chop celery, garlic, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Sauté the Sausage and Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook until they turn pink. Remove and set aside.
- Create the Cajun Sauce:
- In the skillet, add more butter if needed. Sauté garlic, onion, celery, and both bell peppers until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux.
- Slowly add chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Pour in cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet.
- Toss in cooked spaghetti and coat everything in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Dish up this delectable Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta into bowls. Serve hot and savor the flavors.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the meat and double the veggies for a flavorful vegetarian version.
- Smoky Flavor: Enhance the smokiness by using andouille sausage instead of smoked sausage.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar on top before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but add them towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
Q: Is there a substitute for Cajun seasoning?
A: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice can be used in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving.
Q: Is there a way to make it spicier?
A: Certainly! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Replace the regular flour with almond flour or coconut flour for the roux.
- Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.
Low-Carb Version:
- Substitute the cream with heavy cream or coconut cream.
- Opt for a low-carb sausage or replace it with additional shrimp.
In conclusion, Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is a testament to the vibrant and robust flavors of Southern cuisine. Whether you choose to follow the classic recipe or venture into the suggested variations and adaptations, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, don your apron, embrace the essence of Cajun cuisine, and treat your palate to a delightful journey of flavors. Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that will transport you to the heart of the South with every forkful.
