This creamy Cajun Alfredo features smoky andouille sausage and tender shrimp nestled with pasta in a rich, spicy sauce. The skillet method combines sautéed peppers, onions, and garlic with heavy cream, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning to create a velvety coating. Quick to prepare and bursting with bold flavors, this one-pan meal balances the smoky meatiness with fresh parsley garnish. Ideal for weeknight dinners that crave comfort and a touch of spice.
A creamy, spicy one-pan pasta featuring smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for weeknight comfort.
This dish has become a favorite in my house for quick dinners full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the andouille sausage and cook for 34 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Add the shrimp and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 23 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 5:
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Add heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning bring to a simmer.
- Step 6:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Add cooked pasta sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 23 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
My family always looks forward to this recipe especially on busy weeknights when a comforting meal is needed fast.
Notes
For extra heat add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce. Substitute smoked turkey sausage or chicken if preferred. Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. Pairs well with a lightly chilled Chardonnay.
Required Tools
Large skillet Pot for boiling pasta Knife and cutting board Tongs or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy cream Parmesan shellfish shrimp and wheat pasta. May contain gluten depending on sausage and pasta used. Double check all labels if concerned about allergens.
This Cajun Sausage & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Skillet delivers creamy spicy comfort in just one pan—a true weeknight winner.