Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage

Ingredients:

8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 lb spicy sausage (such as andouille or your choice), sliced

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced

1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp butter

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Cook the Shrimp and Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with more Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper as needed.

Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. Add the shrimp and sausage back into the skillet and stir until everything is combined and heated through. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.