This creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage dish is bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp and smoky sausage swim in a rich, tasty sauce that makes every bite a delight.
It’s a fantastic one-pan meal that’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights. I love serving it over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, raw shrimp are best for this dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you could replace them with diced chicken breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Andouille Sausage: This sausage adds a nice spicy kick. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, turkey sausage or smoked sausage work well. For a vegetarian choice, try using a plant-based sausage.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend is key to flavor! If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder can create a substitute that’s nearly as good. Adjust the heat level to your taste!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream works nicely.
Fresh Parsley: This herb brightens the dish. If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil or chives can add a nice touch as well.
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Browned?
Getting that brown color on your sausage enhances its smoky flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high; this will give a good sear.
- Add sausage and don’t overcrowd the pan – this ensures browning instead of steaming.
- Let them sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes before flipping. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Once browned, remove them from the skillet to prevent overcooking while you cook the veggies.
These simple steps will give you deliciously browned sausage, making your dish even more flavorful!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) Cajun or Andouille sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or pasta, for serving (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage dish typically takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying this flavorful meal in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until they are browned and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a spoon to carefully scrape the bottom of the pan, releasing any tasty browned bits. Then, add the diced tomato and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they soften.
5. Combine with Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for a minute or two until it begins to thicken slightly.
6. Add Shrimp and Sausage:
Now, return the browned sausage to the skillet along with the shrimp. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are done.
7. Season and Garnish:
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve:
Serve your creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage dish over cooked rice or pasta. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread on the side to help soak up that delicious sauce!
Bon appétit! We hope you love this rich and satisfying one-pan meal as much as we do!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of thyme. Adjust the spices to match your heat preference!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage pairs well with cooked rice, pasta, or crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal!
