Pasta Dishes Recipe

Cajun Shrimp & Andouille Pasta (serves 4)

1. 1

   Prepare pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. 2

   Season shrimp

   Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.

3. 3

   Brown sausage

   In a large heavy skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the sliced andouille and cook until browned on both sides, about 3–4 minutes. Remove sausage to a plate and leave rendered fat in the pan.

4. 4

   Sauté aromatics

   Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter to the pan with the andouille fat. When butter melts, add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

5. 5

   Build the sauce

   Stir in the tomato paste and cook 1 minute to remove raw flavor. Add smoked paprika, remaining 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 tsp black pepper. Pour in 1 cup white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Let simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

6. 6

   Add liquids

   Stir in 1 cup chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 oz heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust salt; add up to 1 tsp salt if needed.

7. 7

   Finish shrimp and sausage

   Return browned andouille to the pan. Add seasoned shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque (shrimp cook quickly). Do not overcook.

8. 8

   Combine with pasta

   Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce seems thick, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until desired consistency is reached. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.

9. 9

   Brighten and serve

   Finish with lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning or salt/pepper if desired. Divide among 4 plates and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.