This creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage dish is a flavor explosion! With juicy shrimp and tasty sausage cooked in a rich, spicy sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Plus, it’s quick to make, which is a lifesaver on busy nights! I love serving it over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Yum, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best here. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen shrimp is a great substitute—just thaw them before cooking.
Smoked Sausage: I like andouille for its bold flavor, but other smoked sausages like kielbasa or chorizo can also be used. You could even use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Cajun Seasoning: Your spice level can vary depending on what Cajun seasoning you use. Feel free to adjust the amount or use a homemade blend with paprika, garlic powder, and thyme if preferred.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; you don’t want to overdo it! Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time:
- Cook on medium heat for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them as soon as they’re just cooked.
- If you do overcook them, they can get tough and rubbery. Keep a close eye while they’re in the skillet.
Following these simple tips ensures your shrimp remain tender and juicy!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz smoked sausage (such as andouille), sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz cooked spaghetti or linguine pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onion and red bell pepper until they soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or until fragrant.
3. Add Spices and Shrimp:
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they just start to turn pink, about 2 minutes per side. After cooking, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring to combine. Add in the softened cream cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Stir in the cooked spaghetti or linguine pasta and mix everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Simmer and Serve:
Let the dish simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Give it a good taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately—over rice or pasta if desired.
Enjoy your rich, spicy, and creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
For an extra kick, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add more cayenne pepper to taste. You might also consider adding a splash of hot sauce for an additional layer of heat!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work well. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream, but this may slightly change the flavor of the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
