Description
This Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta combines creamy sauces, savory sausage, succulent shrimp, and crispy bacon for a deliciously indulgent meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook the penne or rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - 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. - 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. - 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. - Combine the Sauce:
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. - 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. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes