Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines two fan-favorite ingredients—shrimp and sausage—into one easy and flavorful dish. The Cajun seasoning adds a nice kick, while the creamy ranch sauce brings everything together in the most comforting way. It's a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it's packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced meal the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz. penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 8 oz. smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille or kielbasa recommended)

• 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

4. Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Add the shrimp to the skillet along with Cajun seasoning, ranch dressing mix, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: You can swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or use extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian take on this dish.

• Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your liking to make the dish as spicy or mild as you prefer.

• Pasta: While penne works well, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fettuccine for a slight twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time (like cooking the pasta and chopping vegetables) and assemble the dish when ready to eat. However, the dish is best served fresh.

What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

Smoked sausage like Andouille or kielbasa adds a great flavor, but any cooked sausage will work well in this dish.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or even a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a mild to medium spice level thanks to the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less seasoning.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or even peas can be added to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute and use a dairy-free ranch dressing mix.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

How do I prevent the shrimp from getting overcooked?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to monitor them closely. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it's possible to freeze leftovers, the texture of the shrimp and pasta may change upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

This Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and a deliciously creamy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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This Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet is a creamy, bold, and zesty one-pan meal that brings together juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and pasta in a rich Cajun ranch sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight dinner packed with flavor and protein. Keywords: Cajun pasta, shrimp and sausage skillet, one-pan dinner, creamy ranch pasta.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

8 oz. penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

8 oz. smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced

1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 bell pepper, diced

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 packet ranch dressing mix

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sausage until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

• In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until soft.

• Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, ranch mix, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes.

• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

• Return sausage and pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

• Adjust Cajun seasoning for spice preference.

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

• Use plant-based sausage and extra veggies for a vegetarian option.

• Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated with a splash of broth.