What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Andouille sausage is preferred for its smoky flavor, but smoked turkey or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives.

How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Shrimp should turn pink and opaque, typically after 2–3 minutes of sautéing, ensuring a tender texture without overcooking.

Penne or fettuccine work well; gluten-free pasta is a good option for dietary preferences without compromising texture.

Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat; balance with cream to tone down spiciness if needed.

Chopped fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous touch that complements the rich and spicy flavors.

It is best served fresh, but components like cooked sausage and sauce can be made in advance and combined when ready.

A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for weeknight comfort.

This dish quickly became a family favorite thanks to its bold flavors and simple prep time.

Proteins: 225 g (8 oz) andouille sausage sliced, 225 g (8 oz) large shrimp peeled and deveined
Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fettuccine
Vegetables: 1 small onion finely chopped, 1 red bell pepper sliced, 2 cloves garlic minced
Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 120 ml (½ cup) chicken broth
Seasonings: 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste), Salt and black pepper to taste, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cook Pasta:: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown Sausage:: In a large skillet over medium heat add the andouille sausage and cook for 34 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:: In the same skillet melt the butter. Add onion and red bell pepper sauté for 34 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Cook Shrimp:: Add the shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 23 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Prepare Sauce:: Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning bring to a simmer.
Melt Cheese:: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients:: Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 23 minutes.
Garnish & Serve:: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

My family gathers every weekend to enjoy this hearty meal together creating lasting memories around the table.

Large skillet pot for boiling pasta knife and cutting board tongs or spatula

Contains dairy (cream Parmesan) shellfish (shrimp) and wheat (pasta) Double check all labels if concerned about allergens.

Per serving: Calories 590 total fat 31 g carbohydrates 45 g protein 32 g

This dish combines rich flavors with ease of preparation making it the perfect comfort food any night.

→ What type of sausage works best for this dish?: Andouille sausage is preferred for its smoky flavor, but smoked turkey or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives.
→ How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?: Shrimp should turn pink and opaque, typically after 2–3 minutes of sautéing, ensuring a tender texture without overcooking.
→ Can I substitute the pasta used in the skillet?: Penne or fettuccine work well; gluten-free pasta is a good option for dietary preferences without compromising texture.
→ What is the best way to adjust the spice level?: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat; balance with cream to tone down spiciness if needed.
→ How should I garnish the finished dish?: Chopped fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous touch that complements the rich and spicy flavors.
→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?: It is best served fresh, but components like cooked sausage and sauce can be made in advance and combined when ready.