Ingredients:

For the Protein:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 oz beef or smoked sausage, thinly sliced

For the Pasta:

10 oz fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta)

Sauce & Veggies:

2 tbsp olive oil
½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ cup crushed tomatoes
1 cup chicken stock
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Seasoning:

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preparation: Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by seasoning your shrimp. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step ensures every bite of shrimp is loaded with bold, zesty flavor.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink with slightly golden edges. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Using the same skillet to keep all the delicious flavor, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3–4 minutes. The sausage adds a deep smoky richness that pairs beautifully with the spice of the shrimp. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Into the same skillet, add the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 4–5 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This fragrant trio builds the base of your sauce and infuses the dish with a sweet and savory aroma.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add ½ cup of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken stock to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a light simmer.

Once simmering, pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 4–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Taste the sauce and adjust with more Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper as needed. This is your chance to balance creaminess with heat and make it your own.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the fettuccine (or your preferred pasta) in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Return the shrimp and sausage to the pan as well. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the protein is well-distributed. Allow the dish to warm through for 2–3 minutes so all the flavors can fully marry.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy a bite of the South with every forkful!

Notes

COOKING Note:

Shrimp cook very quickly—overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture. Watch closely for that pink, opaque look and remove them promptly. Also, always cook your pasta just to al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~550 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g