Cajun-Seasoned Shrimp and Sausage Linguine
Enjoy a flavorful and comforting Cajun-Seasoned Shrimp and Sausage Linguine. This quick and hearty dish combines succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and linguine, all coated in a creamy, zesty Cajun sauce. With just the right balance of heat, spice, and richness, it’s a perfect dinner for busy nights or when you want to impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 lb linguine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ lb smoked sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Cook the linguine according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil and cook sliced sausage for 4-5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside with shrimp.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Return shrimp and sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. Stir in lemon juice for brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan (optional) before serving.
Notes
Add Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Different Proteins: Swap shrimp and sausage for chicken, scallops, or a combination.
Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or fresh diced jalapeños for more heat.
Lightened Up Version: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
