Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bursting with zesty Cajun spices and the perfect blend of succulent shrimp and spicy sausage. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a fun weekend dinner. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced (or your favorite spicy sausage)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, oregano, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add Shrimp and Sausage: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the parsley and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference. For a milder dish, use less; for extra heat, add more! You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the shrimp with chicken, Andouille sausage with Italian sausage, or even add some firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a more nutritious and colorful meal.
- Creamy Cajun Pasta: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty and savory note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner. The vibrant flavors and quick cooking time make it a true winner in the world of food recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!