CREAMY CAJUN SHRIMP PASTA WITH SAUSAGE
Ingredients:
1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 sausages (smoked or Italian), sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the linguine or fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
Make the Cajun cream sauce: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
Prepare the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, making it rich and creamy.
Combine everything: Return the cooked shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything in the creamy Cajun sauce.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~750 per serving