Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet
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.
- 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)
Instructions
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Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sausage until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, ranch mix, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes.
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Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Return sausage and pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
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Adjust Cajun seasoning for spice preference.
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Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
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Use plant-based sausage and extra veggies for a vegetarian option.
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Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated with a splash of broth.
