Baked Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Penne

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 12 oz uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
4. 4 Add shrimp and sausage to the skillet, cook until shrimp are pink and sausage is browned.
5. 5 Stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Combine the penne with the shrimp and sausage mixture in a greased baking dish.
7. 7 Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. 8 Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. 9 Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Use chicken sausage for a lighter option.

Substitutions

• Substitute shrimp with chicken or extra sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Use marinara sauce with roasted red peppers for a smoky taste.

Pairings

• A crisp Chardonnay complements the spicy shrimp nicely.
• A chilled lager can balance the heat.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra spice, add a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture.
• If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a preheated oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side Caesar salad.
• Pair with a crusty garlic bread for a heartier meal.

FAQ