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Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Red Sauce

This Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Red Sauce is bursting with smoky, spicy flavor and comes together quickly for a perfect weeknight dinner!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Pasta, Quick, Seafood, Spicy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta your choice; penne or fettuccine recommended
  • 3 ounces raw shrimp thawed, peeled, and deveined
  • 6 ounces pre-cooked smoked Andouille sausage
  • 1 large jalapeno pepper adjust to heat preference
  • 1 medium yellow onion about 2 ounces
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 teaspoons mild olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon smoked hot paprika powder
  • 1 cup chicken broth savory base
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes about 9 ounces
  • 1 teaspoon finely diced canned chipotle pepper about half a small chipotle pepper
  • 1 teaspoon canned adobo sauce from chipotle can
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream to finish sauce
  • fresh thyme for garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of mild olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and jalapeno pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic clove and 6 ounces of pre-cooked smoked Andouille sausage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sausage is heated through.
  • Add 1 cup of canned crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of smoked hot paprika powder, 1 teaspoon of finely diced canned chipotle pepper, 1 teaspoon of canned adobo sauce, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Once your sauce is simmering, add 3 ounces of raw shrimp. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  • Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy finish. Allow it to heat through for another minute.
  • Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat all the noodles evenly. Allow everything to cook together for a minute to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve your delicious Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Red Sauce hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Colander

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for healthier or allergy-friendly options.
  • Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or plant-based alternatives to reduce dairy.
  • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to increase nutrition.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
  • For more heat, increase jalapeno or add crushed red pepper flakes.