Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes? This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta is the answer! Combining succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and tender pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 12 oz smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create this irresistible skillet pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Stir in the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp. Toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.

Tips for the Best Skillet Pasta

• Shrimp Prep: Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely.
• Pasta Choice: Use a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or fusilli.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference—add more for extra heat or omit for a milder dish.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta is a complete meal in one pan, packed with bold flavors and textures. The combination of juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and creamy garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Conclusion

Next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious, give this skillet pasta recipe a try. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and elegance, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below—we’d love to hear how it turned out!