Shrimp and Sausage Pasta 🍤🌭🍝
This Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce that ties it all together. Inspired by Southern and Cajun flavors, it brings heat, depth, and creamy indulgence to your weeknight dinner game.
Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta never disappoints. And the best part? It’s all made in just one skillet.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is everything I want in a creamy pasta: bold flavor, rich texture, and a little spice. The combo of shrimp and sausage gives it that surf-and-turf appeal, and the creamy mozzarella-Parmesan sauce takes it over the top. It’s my go-to when I want something hearty and satisfying, but still easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 smoked sausages (or Andouille), sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
- Sausage: Andouille brings a smoky, spicy kick, but kielbasa or smoked turkey sausage work too.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack if you want extra meltiness.
- Pasta: Penne holds the sauce well, but rotini or rigatoni also shine.
- Cream: Want it lighter? Use half-and-half, but you’ll sacrifice some richness.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Sausage
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet. Add sausage slices and cook until browned and crisp on the edges. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add another tbsp of olive oil. Season shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
Add sliced onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, until softened.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
Step 6: Combine
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in that luscious sauce. Let it warm through for 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if you’re feeling extra. Serve immediately and bask in the applause.
Tips for Success
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp to save time.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should just turn pink and curl.
- For more heat, toss in a little Cajun seasoning or extra cayenne.
- Make it one-pot by cooking the pasta first, then using the same pan for everything else.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, creamy pasta pairs well with:
- A crisp Caesar salad
- Garlic bread or buttery toast
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re into hearty, flavor-packed meals, check out these next:
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
- These Chicken Enchiladas
- This Instant Pot Lasagna
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is one of those recipes that feels restaurant-worthy but is so easy to make at home. With layers of flavor and creamy, cheesy richness, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite.
Tried it? Let us know what you think in the comments—and don’t forget to follow @chefmaniac for more comfort food that brings people to the table.
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