Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to prepare, then the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta is your new go-to recipe. This one-pan wonder beautifully combines succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends on a casual weekend, this recipe promises a satisfying meal full of zest and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want delicious without the fuss.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything together in a single skillet.
• Balanced Flavors: The garlic buttery sauce pairs flawlessly with the savory sausage and juicy shrimp for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customizable with what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Comfort and Gourmet Combined: Feels like a fancy dish but tastes like cozy home cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each adding a layer of flavor, texture, or color that makes the dish sing. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start:

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined, they add a tender, briny bite that complements the richness.
• Andouille or smoked sausage: Adds a smoky depth and a meaty texture that balances the shrimp.
• Pasta: Penne or rigatoni work best for catching the sauce in every nook and cranny.
• Garlic: The star flavor that builds the backbone of the buttery sauce.
• Butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce that coats every ingredient gracefully.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory richness and helps cook the pasta directly in the skillet.
• Parmesan cheese: For that nutty, melty finish that brings everything together.
• Fresh parsley: A fresh pop of green and mild herbaceous flavor to brighten the dish.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that adds complexity without overpowering.

Variations for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta

One of the best parts about the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta is how easy it is to tailor to your tastes or what’s in your pantry. Feel free to mix things up and make the dish truly yours with these ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken, scallops, or even a plant-based sausage alternative to suit your preferences.
• Change the pasta: Try spaghetti, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta for different textures or dietary needs.
• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a decadently rich sauce.
• Herb swap: Use basil, cilantro, or thyme if parsley isn’t your favorite or if you want a new twist.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if necessary, slicing the sausage into bite-sized pieces, mincing the garlic, and chopping parsley. This prep makes the cooking go smoothly without any stops and starts.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage pieces, and cook until nicely browned. This develops a smoky, caramelized flavor that sets the stage for the whole dish. Once browned, transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set them aside with the sausage.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add chicken broth directly to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom while bringing the liquid to a boil. Stir in the pasta, cover, and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts and everything is heated through. Add red pepper flakes now if using, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left in the pan too long, so watch them closely.
• Use a heavy skillet: A cast iron or stainless steel skillet helps evenly brown the sausage and prevents sticking.
• Reserve pasta water: Keep a bit of the cooking liquid to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Fresh garlic is key: Avoid pre-minced for the best aroma and flavor; fresh garlic packs a bigger punch.
• Customize seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking for perfect balance.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta

Garnishes

Add freshly chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for a pleasing look and an upgrade in flavor that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or lightly roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual cast-iron skillets to keep the dish warm and offer a rustic, cozy presentation. Alternatively, plate with a wedge of crusty garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of that buttery sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to keep flavors fresh.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwaving in short intervals with stirring works great.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the frozen shrimp before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

Is it okay to substitute the sausage for another type?

Yes, you can use any sausage you like, such as chorizo, kielbasa, or even chicken sausage, depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, swapping regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties works perfectly in this skillet recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What can I do if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water with added seasonings like salt and herbs to maintain a rich flavor.

How spicy is the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta?

The spice level is mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to make it as spicy as you like.

Final Thoughts

The Garlic Butter Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Pasta is a delightful recipe that combines simplicity with bold, comforting flavors. It’s perfect for anyone looking to impress with an easy-to-make yet impressive dish. Give it a try tonight and savor the magic of garlic, butter, sausage, and shrimp all in one lovely skillet!

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