Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Fettuccine: A Flavor-Packed, Spicy Pasta Delight

In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Create the Cajun Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Everything:
Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:
Serve the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Fettuccine hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

This dish is best served immediately while the pasta is hot and creamy.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring back the creaminess.

Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp and sausage with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, for a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños to spice things up even more.
Seafood Twist: Try mixing in other seafood like scallops or crab for a seafood medley version.

FAQ:

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine is ideal for this recipe, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, penne, or spaghetti.

2. Can I substitute the sausage with another type of meat?
Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.

3. How can I make the dish less spicy?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild Cajun seasoning blend. You can also skip the smoked paprika if you don’t want the added heat.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.

5. Can I freeze Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Fettuccine?
This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce, as it may separate upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, be sure to store the sauce and pasta separately and reheat gently.