When you’re craving something warm, hearty, and absolutely indulgent, this Creamy Shrimp and Sausage Pasta hits all the right notes. Loaded with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, sautéed peppers, and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce, this pasta is a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser that’s ready to steal the spotlight at your dinner table.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, special family meals, or satisfying leftovers, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, even novice cooks can pull off this restaurant-worthy dish with ease.
Who This Recipe Is For
This dish is ideal for:
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Busy families looking for a filling one-pot meal
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Pasta lovers who crave creamy, savory sauces
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Cajun cuisine fans who love bold, spicy flavor (yes, there’s a cayenne kick!)
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Entertainers wanting to impress guests with comfort food that feels elevated
It’s the kind of recipe that works for casual weeknights but also shines as a main course at gatherings. Bonus: It reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for make-ahead meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta:
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1 lb penne pasta (or any favorite pasta)
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 smoked sausages, sliced (Andouille sausage for extra spice)
For the Veggies & Aromatics:
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 medium onion, sliced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Sauce:
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 ½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but recommended for spice lovers)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Extra parmesan, for topping
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large pot (for boiling pasta)
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Chef’s knife and cutting board
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Colander for draining pasta
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy on the edges (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan. Season your shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
Using the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat slightly. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes. Gradually stir in the mozzarella and parmesan, mixing until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta, cooked shrimp, and sausage back into the skillet. Toss well to combine everything and allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes so the pasta soaks up all the creamy goodness.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra parmesan for that irresistible cheesy finish.
Expert Tips and Tricks
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Don’t overcook the shrimp – They cook quickly and become rubbery if left on heat too long.
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Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
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Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine after cooking the shrimp for extra flavor.
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Add spinach or mushrooms to the veggie sauté for more nutrition and depth.
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Spice it up – Double the cayenne or add hot sauce if you love it fiery.
Recipe Variations
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Low-carb version: Swap penne for zucchini noodles or shirataki pasta.
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Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce cheese amounts.
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Extra veggies: Try adding spinach, broccoli florets, or cherry tomatoes.
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No sausage? Sub in grilled chicken, turkey sausage, or even tofu.
Storage & Reheating
How to Store:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat:
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each.
Perfect Pairings
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Garlic bread or crusty baguette
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Side salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
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Sparkling water with lemon or lime
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook and combine everything, then store it. Reheat gently before serving. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
Is this spicy?
Mild as written, with a gentle kick from the paprika and optional cayenne. Adjust spices to suit your heat preference.
What kind of pasta works best?
Penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great alternatives.
One-Pan Wonder You’ll Crave Again and Again
This Creamy Shrimp and Sausage Pasta is everything you want in a comfort dish—creamy, cheesy, smoky, and loaded with bold flavor. It’s easy enough for weeknights but delicious enough to wow dinner guests. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you might already have on hand.
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Dig in and enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it! 🍝🔥