Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

Indulge in the flavors of the Bayou with this delightful Cajun pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and a creamy sauce infused with a blend of aromatic herbs. This unique twist on pasta will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

2	tablespoons butter
1	pound andouille sausage, sliced
1	cup finely chopped celery
1	large sweet onion (such as Vidalia®), finely chopped
1	large green bell pepper, finely chopped
3	cloves garlic, finely chopped
1	pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1	(28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (such as San Marzano®)
1	teaspoon sweet paprika
1	teaspoon Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere's®)
¼	teaspoon cayenne pepper (Optional)
2	cups chicken broth
1	(16 ounce) package penne pasta
1	pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
½	cup heavy whipping cream
½	bunch fresh thyme, chopped
½	bunch fresh oregano, chopped
½	bunch fresh basil, chopped
¼	cup chopped green onions
¼	cup Parmesan cheese, or to taste

Instructions

• 1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 2 minutes. Incorporate finely chopped celery, onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink inside and juices run clear, for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sweet paprika, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  2. Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring back to a simmer. Add penne pasta and simmer for 8 minutes. Add the shrimp. Continue simmering, stirring constantly, until the pasta is al dente and shrimp are cooked through, approximately 7 minutes more.
  3. Add the heavy whipping cream and then incorporate chopped thyme, oregano, and basil. Cook until just heated through, for about 3 to 5 minutes. Serve the dish topped with a sprinkle of green onions and grated Parmesan cheese.

Jul 30, 2024