This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage dish is packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp and smoky sausage come together in a rich, creamy sauce that’s sure to please your taste buds.
I love how this meal warms you up inside. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can enjoy a cozy dinner in no time—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are great, but frozen shrimp work fine too! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. If you prefer, you can swap shrimp for cooked chicken or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
Smoked Sausage: Andouille sausage adds a smoky and spicy flavor, but you can use kielbasa or any other smoked sausage if needed. For a lighter option, turkey sausage is a good substitute too.
Cajun Seasoning: This well-balanced spice mix gives the dish its kick. If you’re low on Cajun seasoning, you could mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and some cayenne for a homemade version.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the dish creamy, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version if you prefer.
How Do You Cook the Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp just right ensures they are tender and juicy! Here’s how to get it perfect:
- Make sure your shrimp are in a single layer in the pan for even cooking.
- Watch closely as they turn from translucent to a nice pink color, usually around 4-5 minutes.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked. They continue to cook a bit even after being removed!
Letting them sit too long can make them tough, so act quickly once they look perfect!
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) smoked sausage, sliced (such as Andouille)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (drained if using canned)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 oz (115g) linguine or thin pasta (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have it on the table in just about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy night in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
Start by seasoning the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning. This adds fantastic flavor right from the get-go! Set the shrimp aside for now.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Once heated, toss in the sliced sausage. Cook until it’s browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Once browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them until they’re softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma.
4. Add Tomatoes & Cream:
Stir in the diced tomatoes and let them cook for a couple of minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Don’t forget to add the rest of your Cajun seasoning! Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine with Sausage:
Once simmering, return the browned sausage to the skillet. This helps the sausage flavors come back into the dish!
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so pay close attention!
7. Optional Pasta:
If you’re using pasta, cook it according to the package instructions now. Once it’s ready, drain it and add it to the skillet, tossing everything together so the sauce coats the pasta.
8. Final Seasoning & Serve:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy this creamy, spicy dish with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by submerging them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for the Sausage?
If you’d like a different flavor or to make it lighter, turkey sausage or chicken sausage are great alternatives. You could also use a vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether for a lighter dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid hot spots.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, add extra Cajun seasoning or toss in some chopped jalapeños! You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes during cooking for an added kick. Adjust to your taste!
