Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp pasta and sausage recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, and it's surprisingly easy to make – even for beginner cooks! This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes without sacrificing taste. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
Cook the Sausage and Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the sausage and shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Create the Sauce:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and shrimp.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Tips for the Best Shrimp Pasta and Sausage:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Use good quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage will really shine in this dish.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more!
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach. Add them to the skillet along with the garlic.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
Variations:
- Lemon Shrimp Pasta and Sausage: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta and Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Shrimp Scampi Pasta and Sausage: Add a tablespoon of butter and a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a scampi-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This easy recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. Enjoy!