This creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage dish is bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp and savory sausage come together in a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up this meal. Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ll be feeling like a top chef in no time! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish, providing a nice meaty texture. If you can’t find shrimp, you could use diced chicken breast or even tofu for a seafood-free version!
Smoked Sausage: Andouille sausage adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, Kielbasa or even turkey sausage can be used. Vegetarian sausage also works well if you’re aiming for a meatless dish.
Cajun Seasoning: This is essential for flavor! If you run out, try mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a homemade blend. Adjust to your heat preference!
Heavy Cream: Provides creaminess that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works too, but the sauce may not be as rich. Non-dairy cream alternatives like coconut cream can also be used.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they can easily become rubbery. Here’s how to make them just right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding shrimp. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- Season shrimp lightly before adding them to the skillet to boost flavor.
- Cook shrimp for just about 2 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done. Remove them as soon as they reach this stage to avoid overcooking.
Following these tips will give you perfectly tender shrimp that really brings this dish to life!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Sauces and Spices:
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: cooked pasta or rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook! It’s perfect for a quick dinner with lots of flavor. Just gather your ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delightful meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, which will take about 3-4 minutes per side. This gives it a delicious flavor! Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, it’s time to add some color and flavor! Throw in the thinly sliced onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and the peppers are tender, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, oregano, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds to really wake up those spices!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Time for the shrimp! Add them to the skillet, lightly seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2 minutes per side. When they’re good to go, remove them from the skillet and set them aside with the sausage.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Add in the softened cream cheese and stir until it melts and combines into a smooth sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet, along with any juices they’ve released. Let everything simmer together for 3-5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken a bit.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if you want an extra kick!
8. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish your creamy Cajun shrimp and sausage with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot over cooked pasta, rice, or simply enjoy it on its own!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and flavorful Cajun shrimp and sausage! It’s a meal sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to completely thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream. For a non-dairy alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream can also work well, though it will impart a slight coconut flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly!
