87% would make this again

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Q: What is Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

It's a creamy pasta dish made with spicy seasoned shrimp, smoky sausage and often bell peppers and onions all tossed in a rich cream sauce over pasta like penne or fettuccine. It blends bold Cajun flavours with tender seafood and hearty pasta for a filling meal.

Q: How do you make the sauce for Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

The sauce starts by cooking garlic, onions and spices then you add cream and Parmesan cheese and let it gently thicken before tossing in your cooked pasta so it clings to every bite. Keeping the heat low once the cream goes in helps keep it smooth and silky.

Q: Can I adjust the spice level in Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

Sure you can make it milder by using less Cajun seasoning or swapping some cayenne for smoked paprika and you can make it spicier by adding extra Cajun seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to taste. Most recipes recommend starting with a small amount and tasting before you add more.

Q: What type of pasta works best with Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

Short pastas like penne hold the creamy sauce well because the sauce gets caught inside the tubes but long pastas like fettuccine or linguine are also popular choices that make each forkful feel rich and satisfying.

Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from getting rubbery?

Pat your shrimp dry before seasoning and cook them just until they turn pink and curl up which only takes a few minutes. Overcooking them is the most common reason they become tough and taste rubbery.

Q: Can I add extra vegetables to Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely, many cooks add bell peppers, onions, spinach or even mushrooms to the sauce to add colour, flavour as well as extra nutrition and they complement the creamy Cajun sauce so beautifully.

Q: What can I serve with Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

A simple green salad, crusty garlic bread or even steamed vegetables work well alongside this dish to balance the richness of the creamy sauce. Some people also like a squeeze of lemon over the top for brightness.

Q: How do I store and reheat this Shrimp and Sausage Pasta?

Leftovers keep best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce and keep it smooth.

Vish G

January 29, 2026

If dinner needs something hearty Cajun Shrimp Pasta delivers without trying too hard. Shrimp and sausage cook up fast and soak into a creamy sauce that feels rich but not heavy. This is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary night into a great one. A beautiful way to squeeze in extra protein into your day with a restaurant style dish!

PREP TIME

15 MIN

COOK TIME

25 MIN

SERVINGS

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz (225 g) smoked sausage or Andouille, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp plain flour
1 ½ cups (360 ml) double cream or heavy cream
½ cup (120 ml) chicken stock
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of ½ a lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until just tender, then drain and set aside.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat and cook the sausage slices until lightly browned then remove and set aside.
In the same pan add butter, then cook the shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through then remove and set aside with the sausage.
Lower the heat to medium and add the onion and bell pepper cooking until softened.
Stir in the garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring, followed by the cream and let the sauce gently simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp and sausage back into the pan and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Remove from the heat and squeeze in the lemon juice stirring gently to brighten the flavours.
Finish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan then serve hot and enjoy.