Fiery Shrimp and Sausage Linguine Recipe for Zesty Dinners

Sizzling flavors burst onto your plate with this irresistible spicy shrimp and sausage linguine that promises a culinary adventure.

Juicy shrimp and smoky sausage dance together in a vibrant, zesty sauce that wakes up every taste bud.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of heat and richness, combining bold ingredients into one unforgettable pasta experience.

The dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings.

Layers of spice and texture create a symphony of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Robust seasonings and tender seafood transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Fire up your skillet and get ready to savor every mouthwatering forkful of this spectacular linguine.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 646 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Linguine

• Shrimp: Sweet ocean gems that cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully; choose fresh, firm shrimp with a clean ocean scent.
• Andouille Sausage: Spicy Cajun sausage that adds smoky depth and rich flavor; look for high-quality smoked varieties.
• Parmesan Cheese: Salty, nutty cheese that creates creamy texture and enhances overall dish complexity.

• Bell Pepper: Adds vibrant color and sweet crunch; select crisp peppers with bright, glossy skin.
• Onion: Provides foundational savory base; choose firm onions without soft spots.
• Garlic: Intense flavor booster that elevates the entire dish; fresh cloves deliver maximum taste.

• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and tangy brightness; opt for high-quality canned tomatoes.
• Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, silky sauce; ensures rich consistency.
• Water: Helps cook pasta and balance sauce thickness.
• Cajun Seasoning: Signature spice blend that delivers authentic Louisiana kick.
• Vinegar: Adds subtle brightness and balances rich flavors.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances and develops overall dish seasoning.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides rich, smooth base for cooking and creating sauce.

Kitchen Tools for Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Linguine

• 12-inch skillet or Dutch oven: Large, deep cooking pan perfect for one-pot meals with even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: Sturdy surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's knife: Sharp knife for precise chopping of onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurate salt and seasoning measurements.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
• Plate or bowl: Needed for temporarily holding cooked shrimp.
• Colander: Used for draining canned tomatoes.

How to Cook Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Linguine

• Shrimp Sizzle

Brown succulent shrimp in butter over high heat until edges turn golden, creating a delightful caramelized exterior. Set aside the perfectly cooked seafood.

• Sausage and Veggie Symphony

Introduce sliced andouille sausage to the same pan, letting it dance and develop rich brown edges. Toss in colorful bell peppers, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic, allowing everything to mingle and soften.

• Creamy Pasta Fusion

Pour diced tomatoes, water, heavy cream, linguine, and zesty Cajun seasoning into the skillet. Let everything bubble and blend, transforming into a luscious, cohesive sauce that coats each pasta strand.

• Cheesy Finale

Remove from heat and stir in tangy Parmesan cheese and a splash of vinegar, creating a silky, luxurious coating. Gently return shrimp to the pan, warming them in the decadent sauce.

• Presentation

Plate the steaming linguine, showering with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation that promises explosive flavors in every bite.

Tips for Balancing Heat in This Linguine Dish

• Spicy Seafood Swap: Try replacing shrimp with tender scallops or flaky white fish for a delightful protein variation that keeps the dish exciting and fresh.
• Spice Level Control: Dial the heat up or down by adjusting the Cajun seasoning amount – use less for mild palates or add extra red pepper flakes for those who love a serious kick.
• Pasta Alternative Magic: Swap linguine with penne, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist that maintains the dish's incredible flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute shrimp and andouille sausage with plant-based chorizo and hearty mushrooms to create a satisfying meatless version that doesn't compromise on taste and texture.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement this spicy dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to balance the robust flavors and create a restaurant-worthy dining experience.

Serving Shrimp and Sausage Linguine with Style

• Festive Family Dinner Night: Gather loved ones around the table and enjoy this spicy, hearty pasta as a centerpiece meal that sparks conversation and creates lasting memories.
• Coastal Dinner Party Delight: Impress guests with this restaurant-quality dish that combines elegant seafood and robust sausage, perfect for an intimate evening gathering.
• Weeknight Comfort Meal: Transform an ordinary evening into a culinary adventure by serving this one-skillet wonder that delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures in under 30 minutes.
• Weekend Lunch Champion: Pack this linguine in lunch containers for a midday treat that will make colleagues jealous, showcasing a delicious meal that travels and reheats beautifully.

Storage Tips for Shrimp and Sausage Linguine

• Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days when sealed properly in the refrigerator.
• Freezing Technique: Portion linguine into freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
• Reheating Wisdom: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or cream to restore sauce consistency. Avoid microwave to prevent seafood from becoming rubbery or pasta turning mushy.
• Ingredient Separation: Keep shrimp and pasta separate during storage to maintain optimal texture. Mix just before serving to prevent soggy noodles and preserve individual ingredient quality.

Zesty Shrimp and Sausage Linguine Recipe

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4.9 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Spicy shrimp and sausage linguine delivers bold Mediterranean flavors in a quick weeknight dinner. Robust ingredients combine for a hearty pasta experience you’ll savor with each satisfying bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound raw jumbo shrimp (21 to 25 per pound), peeled and deveined
• 6 to 7 oz andouille sausage, cut into ¼-inch thick coins
• 2 oz (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 12 oz dried linguine pasta
• 3 tbsps unsalted butter, divided
• 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
• 3 cups water
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsps Cajun seasoning with salt
• ¾ tsp kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed
• 2 tsps sherry, red, or white wine vinegar
• 1 (14.5-oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained
• Finely chopped fresh parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Shrimp Preparation: Pat shrimp dry, ensuring they are completely peeled and deveined for optimal texture and presentation.
2. Shrimp Searing: Heat a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer, allowing each piece to develop a golden-brown exterior without disturbance. Cook until transforming from translucent to opaque, then transfer to a separate container.
3. Flavor Foundation: In the same skillet, caramelize andouille sausage to release smoky flavors. Add bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to create a robust aromatic base.
4. Sauce and Pasta Integration: Combine diced tomatoes, water, heavy cream, linguine, and Cajun seasoning in the skillet. Bring to a vigorous boil, stirring continuously to ensure even pasta cooking and sauce development. Cook until pasta reaches al dente and sauce thickens to a luxurious consistency.
5. Final Touches: Remove skillet from heat. Incorporate Parmesan cheese and a splash of vinegar, folding until cheese melts completely. Reintroduce seared shrimp, gently tossing to warm and coat with the vibrant, creamy sauce.
6. Serving: Plate linguine immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant flavor enhancement.

Notes

• Shrimp Searing Technique: Pat shrimp completely dry to achieve golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming, ensuring crisp caramelization.
• Prevent Overcooking: Remove shrimp immediately after turning opaque to maintain tender, juicy texture and prevent rubbery consistency.
• Sauce Thickness Control: Stir continuously during pasta cooking to develop rich, creamy sauce and prevent sticking or uneven sauce distribution.
• Flavor Layering: Caramelize sausage first to release deep smoky notes, creating a robust flavor foundation before adding additional ingredients.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 646
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 830 mg
• Fat: 34 g
• Saturated Fat: 19 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 186 mg