Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

Indulge in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a comforting dinner that packs a punch of flavor!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) penne or rigatoni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 lb (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the penne or rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon and Sausage:
   • In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
   • In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside with the sausage and bacon.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken. Add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Mix the Pasta:
   • Add the cooked pasta, sausage, shrimp, and bacon to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is well coated with the cheese sauce and heated through.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calorie Count: 650 kcal per serving

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta is a decadent and satisfying meal that combines rich, creamy cheese sauce with hearty ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner or a comforting family meal!