Name: Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 8 oz penne pasta; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Nothing brings people together like a hearty, flavorful dish, and this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Combining succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and pasta in a creamy sauce, this dish is infused with Cajun spices that promise to delight your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Creating this mouthwatering dish requires a blend of fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined.
Andouille Sausage: 1 pound, sliced into rounds.
Pasta: 1 pound of penne or your favorite pasta.
Bell Peppers: 1 each of red and green, diced.
Onion: 1 large, diced.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
Cajun Seasoning: 2 tablespoons, adjust based on your spice preference.
Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup.
Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Olive Oil: For cooking.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delectable Cajun-inspired feast:

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers, cooking until they are soft. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Return the sausage to the skillet and add the shrimp. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Reduce the heat and stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth until well combined and smooth.
Assemble the Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the sausage and shrimp mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven, let it cool slightly, and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Conclusion

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of creamy, spicy, and hearty flavors makes it a satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special celebrations. Dive into the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine with this delicious pasta bake and enjoy a meal that's as enjoyable to cook as it is to eat.