Looking for a dish that’s full of flavor, comfort, and a little bit of Southern charm? Let me introduce you to Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake. This recipe is the perfect marriage of bold Cajun spices, creamy goodness, and a satisfying pasta bake that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this pasta bake is always a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s super easy to make, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
Stay tuned because I’m about to show you how to whip up this Southern-inspired classic, step by step. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Ingredients Overview
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
8 oz andouille sausage (sliced)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper (diced)
1 green bell pepper (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cook Pasta:
Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook Sausage and Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add shrimp to the skillet, season with Cajun seasoning, and cook until pink. Remove and set aside.
Prepare Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and garlic until softened.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and additional Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Ingredients:
Mix cooked pasta, sausage, shrimp, and sauce together. Pour into a greased baking dish.
Bake:
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Before you start cooking, here are a few tips to make your Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake truly irresistible:
1. Use Fresh Shrimp
When it comes to seafood, fresh is always best. Fresh shrimp bring out the sweetest, most tender flavors in this dish. If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the bake.
2. Make Your Own Cajun Seasoning
For that authentic Louisiana flavor, consider making your own Cajun seasoning blend. It’s super simple—just mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This way, you can control the spice level to suit your taste buds.
3. Perfect the Cheese Topping
A golden, bubbly cheese topping is what makes this pasta bake so special. For the best results, layer shredded cheese evenly across the top and pop it under the broiler for the last few minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, and you’ll have a beautifully crisp and melty finish.
With these tips in hand, you’re set up for pasta bake perfection. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this delicious, Southern-inspired dish!
How to Serve Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake
Once your Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake comes out of the oven, bubbling with cheesy, golden perfection, the next step is to decide what to serve with it. While this dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, pairing it with the right sides and drinks can take your meal to the next level.
Perfect Side Dishes
To balance out the richness of this pasta bake, a crisp, refreshing side dish is a must. A simple green salad with fresh lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect way to add a touch of freshness to your plate.
If you’re a bread lover, you can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread. The crispy edges and garlicky flavor are perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy Cajun sauce. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli make a great option to add more color and nutrition to your meal.
Beverage Pairings
No Southern-inspired dish is complete without the right drink to wash it down. For a non-alcoholic option, classic sweet tea or refreshing lemonade are always crowd-pleasers. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy Cajun flavors in the pasta bake.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more grown-up, a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the shrimp and creamy sauce wonderfully. For beer lovers, a light lager or even a fruity IPA works just as well.
What About Leftovers?
Let’s face it—this pasta bake is so good, there might not be much left. But if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they make for an easy, delicious meal the next day. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave. To keep the pasta creamy, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating.
With these serving suggestions, your Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake will be the star of any meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to savor the Southern flavors!
FAQs for Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Bake
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, then pat them dry before adding to the recipe.
2. What type of sausage is best for this dish?
Smoked sausage or andouille sausage is ideal for this recipe because it adds a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less spice, kielbasa is a great substitute.
3. How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
To keep the pasta creamy, make sure to use enough sauce to coat the noodles before baking. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to the dish and stir before microwaving or heating in the oven.
4. Can I make this dish spicier?
Definitely! To kick up the heat, add extra Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
5. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking that your Cajun seasoning and sausage are gluten-free as well. Most smoked sausages and seasonings are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the label.
6. What type of cheese works best for the topping?
Shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of both works beautifully. If you want an extra bold flavor, you can mix in some sharp cheddar or Gruyère.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
8. Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until warmed through.