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Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Cajun
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake is loaded with plump shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and tender pasta, all tossed in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. Baked to perfection with melty cheese, this dish is an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that delivers bold flavors in every bite!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta

For the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 6 oz andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Baking:

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

2. Cook the Sausage and Shrimp

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add shrimp. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
  • Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let simmer for 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.
  • Gradually stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, mixing until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sausage. Pour the Cajun sauce over the pasta and mix well.
  • Top with ½ cup mozzarella cheese and ½ cup cheddar cheese.

5. Bake

  • Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
  • Protein Swap: Use chicken instead of shrimp, or mix both for extra flavor.
  • Extra Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for heat.
  • Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie version.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are GF.