Cajun Ranch Shrimp Sausage (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta and Oils
01 -
227 grams penne pasta
02 -
30 milliliters olive oil
→ Proteins
03 -
227 grams smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille or kielbasa preferred)
04 -
454 grams shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large size)
→ Vegetables and Seasonings
05 -
1 bell pepper, diced
06 -
1 small onion, chopped
07 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
15 milliliters Cajun seasoning
09 -
1 packet ranch dressing mix
10 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Sauce Components
11 -
240 milliliters chicken broth
12 -
240 milliliters heavy cream
→ Garnish
13 -
Fresh parsley, chopped
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
02 -
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still retain slight crunch.
04 -
Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and ranch dressing mix to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with sausage.
05 -
Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let the sauce thicken slightly for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If sauce becomes too thick, add additional chicken broth.
06 -
Return cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
07 -
Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately while hot and creamy, optionally adding grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp to ensure optimal texture. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent toughness. Adjust Cajun seasoning to desired spice level.