Shrimp and Turkey Sausage Pasta

A creamy, savory pasta loaded with plump shrimp, juicy turkey sausage, and tossed with a tomato-basil sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving comfort with a kick.

Ingredients

• 1 pound linguine pasta (or penne, as shown in the image)

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed (or precooked and sliced)

• ½ cup onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for serving)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• (Optional) ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat

• (Optional) ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese for creamier texture

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Large pot for pasta

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Colander

• Knife and cutting board

‍ Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook the linguine (or your pasta of choice) according to package directions until al dente.

• Drain and set aside. Toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Aromatics

• In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

• Add ½ cup chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Turkey Sausage

• Add turkey sausage to the skillet.

  • If using raw sausage, break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through.

  • If using pre-cooked links (as in your photo), slice them into rounds and sear both sides for a nice crust.

• Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Build the Sauce

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.

• Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

• Let simmer for 10 minutes, uncovered, to thicken slightly.

• (Optional) Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or 2 tbsp cream cheese for a rich, velvety sauce.

5. Add the Shrimp

• Nestle the shrimp into the simmering sauce.

• Cook for 3–5 minutes, flipping once, until pink and opaque.

  Tip: Do not overcook the shrimp—they turn rubbery if left too long.

6. Combine with Pasta

• Add the drained pasta into the skillet.

• Toss well to coat with the sauce and distribute the shrimp and sausage evenly.

• Stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Plate the pasta while hot.

• Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil or parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

⏱️ Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Calories: ~520–600 per serving (varies by cream and cheese)

Variations & Tips

Wine Pairing

Pair with a chilled Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or rosé for a crisp contrast to the richness of the dish.