Description
If you’re searching for a quick and hearty dinner idea, this Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet will hit the spot. Loaded with smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and rotini pasta tossed in a creamy, zesty Cajun ranch sauce, it’s a comfort food delight that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends, this easy recipe combines rich flavors and simple cooking techniques. Serve it up with garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal everyone will rave about!
Ingredients
- Rotini Pasta: 12 oz, cooked al dente
- Andouille Sausage: 8 oz, sliced
- Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
- Bell Pepper (Red or Yellow): 1, chopped
- Onion: 1, diced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Cajun Seasoning: 2 tbsp (more if desired)
- Ranch Dressing: 1 cup
- Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tbsp
- Parsley (for Garnish): 2 tbsp, chopped
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil or butter. Add onions and bell peppers, sautéing until tender and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning generously with Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add ranch dressing, stirring to scrape up browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine Everything: Return pasta, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss until pasta is well-coated in sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley, cracked pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes