Do shrimp and sausage go together?

Yes—shrimp and sausage are a natural pairing, especially in Cajun cooking. The sweet, delicate flavor of shrimp is perfectly balanced by the smoky, spicy depth of sausage. In Cajun shrimp and smoked sausage pasta , that combination creates a dynamic dish that’s both bold and comforting. The contrast in textures also makes every bite satisfying: tender shrimp, hearty sausage, and creamy pasta all in one forkful.

What goes with Cajun shrimp?

Cajun shrimp pairs beautifully with fresh and light sides that balance its richness and spice. Crisp salads, roasted vegetables, and starchy sides like garlic bread or cornbread work well. If you're making a full Cajun-themed spread, consider serving with dirty rice or collard greens. You can also keep things simple by pairing this pasta with a fresh green salad—just like we recommend for our creamy Boursin shrimp pasta .

What can I make with shrimp and sausage pasta?

This recipe is a one-pan wonder, but there are endless ways to customize it. Want a tomato-based variation? Try adding diced tomatoes or tomato paste. Looking for something extra smoky? Roast your bell peppers before adding them. You can even switch up the pasta or swap in other proteins like chicken or scallops. Need inspiration? Our one-pot smoky Cajun chicken and sausage pasta shows how easy it is to adapt.

Is Cajun style smoked sausage hot?

Cajun-style sausage usually has some spice, but it’s not overwhelming. Most brands balance paprika, garlic, and pepper with a smoky, savory flavor. If you're sensitive to heat, start with a mild smoked sausage or use half the amount of Cajun seasoning in your sauce. You can always adjust spice later. For a dish that’s flavorful but not too spicy, try Cajun pasta with smoked sausage , which uses a creamier sauce and milder ingredients.

Cajun Shrimp and Smoked Sausage Pasta That’ll Make You Melt

Name: Cajun Shrimp and Smoked Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste); 1 small onion, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Description

This creamy Cajun shrimp and smoked sausage pasta is bold, rich, and packed with Southern flavor in just one skillet.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

12 oz smoked sausage, sliced

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)

1 small onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with Cajun seasoning, and cook until pink (2–3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Add remaining oil to the skillet. Cook sausage until browned. Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook until sauce thickens slightly.

5. Return shrimp and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the sauce.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning to taste. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use andouille sausage for a spicier kick.

Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Use rigatoni instead of penne for a twist.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 520
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 910mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 185mg