Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet

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A sizzling celebration of Southern flavors, the Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet combines bold spices, creamy sauce, and a hearty mix of proteins in one vibrant pan. Juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and savory ground beef are tossed with tender rotini pasta in a zesty Cajun ranch sauce, creating a mouthwatering comfort dish that’s rich, creamy, and satisfying.

This skillet is ideal for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing weekend feast. It’s fast to prepare, delivers restaurant-quality flavor, and brings a lively, spicy edge without overwhelming the taste buds. Whether you’re craving something soulful or simply love a creamy pasta with a kick, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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Ingredients for Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1/2 lb ground beef (optional for extra richness)
• 2 cups rotini pasta (or any preferred pasta)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional for topping)
• Salt, to taste

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add ground beef (if using), breaking it apart with a spatula and cooking until fully browned. Drain excess fat and set aside with the sausage.

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Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Ranch Sauce

Reduce heat to low. In the same skillet, add the ranch dressing and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried parsley. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, sausage, and ground beef into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated. Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning to taste.

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Step 6: Optional Cheesy Finish

If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top. Cover and let it melt over low heat for 2–3 minutes before serving.

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Storage Instructions

To store your Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 3 days. Store in a sealed container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezer: This pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of the shrimp and pasta may slightly change. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm over low heat with a bit of added cream or broth.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~580 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 970mg
  Note: Exact values may vary depending on sausage brand and cheese type used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp works best?

Use large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work well.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, farfalle, or fettuccine are great alternatives to rotini.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a moderate Cajun kick. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. To reduce heat, use a mild Cajun seasoning.

Can I skip the ground beef?

Yes. The sausage and shrimp provide plenty of flavor, but the beef adds richness if desired.

What’s a good substitute for ranch dressing?

You can use sour cream or a homemade blend of mayo, buttermilk, and herbs.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Try substituting coconut cream for heavy cream and use a dairy-free ranch. Omit cheese or use vegan alternatives.

What sausage is best for this recipe?

Andouille sausage is ideal for its smoky spice, but kielbasa or any smoked sausage works too.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

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