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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Andouille and Bell Peppers

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A creamy, spicy, and satisfying pasta salad featuring Cajun-seasoned shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and crunchy bell peppers tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta (about 225 grams)
  • 1 cup andouille sausage, sliced (about 150 grams)
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 450 grams)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley or green onions, shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain completely.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced andouille sausage (about 1 cup or 150 grams) and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add peeled and deveined shrimp (1 pound or 450 grams). Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking. Remove from heat.
  4. Dice 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. No need to cook these.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml), 1/4 cup sour cream (60 ml), 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sautéed andouille, shrimp, and diced bell peppers. Pour the creamy Cajun dressing over everything and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, give it a quick toss and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for freshness.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and help dressing adhere. Use rotini or similar pasta shapes to hold dressing well. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. If dressing is too thick, add a splash of milk or buttermilk. Add shrimp last during assembly if they cool too fast to keep them tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, andouille sausage recipe, bell pepper pasta salad, quick pasta salad, spicy shrimp salad, Southern pasta salad

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-andouille-and-bell-peppers/