Cajun-Seasoned Shrimp and Sausage Linguine

Here’s a delicious Cajun-Seasoned Shrimp and Sausage Linguine recipe that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

Cajun-Seasoned Shrimp and Sausage Linguine

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Cajun Seasoning (or use store-bought):

• 1 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

For the pasta:

• 12 oz linguine

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ½ lb (225g) smoked andouille sausage, sliced

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• ½ small red onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the linguine:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Season the shrimp:

   • Toss shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning. Set aside.

3. Cook the sausage and shrimp:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from the skillet.

   • In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

4. Sauté veggies:

   • Add butter to the skillet. Sauté bell peppers and onions for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

5. Make the sauce:

   • Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, then add heavy cream and chicken broth (or wine). Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   • Stir in Parmesan until melted. Add cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp. Toss everything to coat. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Tips:

• Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.

• For a spicier kick, sprinkle in extra cayenne or red pepper flakes.

• Swap linguine with fettuccine or penne if preferred.