Cheesy Shrimp with Sausage & Bacon

This indulgent seafood and meat pasta delivers comfort food at its finest with layers of smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and tender shrimp all wrapped in a decadent cheese sauce. The combination creates a restaurant-worthy dish that comes together quickly for special occasions or whenever you need a satisfying dinner.

I discovered this recipe during a rainy weekend when I was craving something indulgent but didn't want to leave the house. The combination of seafood and smoky meats transformed basic pantry ingredients into what has become our family's most requested special occasion meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta: Rotini provides the perfect shape for capturing the creamy sauce in every bite
• 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the luxurious base for our cheese sauce
• 2 cups freshly grated cheese blend: The mix of Gruyère, aged white cheddar, smoked Gouda, and mild cheddar creates incredible depth
• 4 oz cream cheese: Adds silky texture and tanginess to balance the rich sauce
• 10-12 raw shrimp: Deveined with tails removed for elegant protein that cooks quickly
• 1 link smoked sausage: Brings smoky flavor that complements the seafood beautifully
• 5 slices bacon: Cooked and chopped adds savory crunch and irresistible flavor
• 3 cloves minced garlic: Provides aromatic foundation for the sauce
• 1 tsp seafood seasoning: Enhances the shrimp flavor without overpowering
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Adds herbal notes that lighten the rich sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Intensifies garlic flavor throughout the sauce
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds depth without the texture of fresh onions
• 2 tbsp butter: Creates silky richness when blooming the garlic
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season and Cook the Protein:

Season shrimp thoroughly with seafood seasoning ensuring even coverage. Heat about 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add shrimp and cook just until they form a C shape, about 2-3 minutes per side. They should be pink and opaque but still tender. Remove to a plate. Add sliced sausage to the same pan and brown until edges are caramelized, about 3-4 minutes. The fond developing on the pan will add flavor to your final dish. Set aside with the shrimp.

Create the Garlic Base:

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pan allowing it to melt completely. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about one minute. Watch carefully as garlic burns quickly and will impart bitterness to your sauce.

Build the Cheese Sauce:

Add cream cheese to the garlic butter, breaking it into smaller pieces to help it melt evenly. Pour in heavy cream and whisk continuously until cream cheese is fully incorporated with no lumps. The mixture should be smooth and beginning to thicken. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring to distribute evenly. Gradually add the grated cheese blend in small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. Once sauce is silky and coats the back of a spoon, remove from heat immediately to prevent separation.

Combine and Finish:

Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every piece. The pasta should be slightly underdone as it will continue cooking in the hot sauce. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, sausage, and chopped bacon, distributing evenly throughout. The residual heat will warm everything through without overcooking. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and additional cheese if desired just before serving.

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The smoked Gouda is truly the secret ingredient that elevates this dish from good to unforgettable. I discovered this by accident when I was short on cheddar and needed to improvise. The subtle smokiness creates harmony between the seafood and meat flavors creating a cohesive dish that tastes like it took hours to develop.

Cheese Selection Matters

The blend of cheeses creates the soul of this dish. For best results, grate your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties which contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Room temperature cheese also melts more smoothly so consider pulling it from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a stronger flavor profile, substitute some Parmesan or aged provolone for part of the cheddar. The combination of at least three different cheeses creates complexity that makes this dish memorable.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This pasta can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk and warm over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Avoid microwave reheating which can cause the cheese to separate and become oily. The flavors actually develop overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option for busy weeknights. For best results, consume within 3 days and note that the seafood texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Protein Variations

While the combination of shrimp, sausage, and bacon creates an unbeatable flavor profile, you can easily adapt this recipe to what you have available. Substitute chicken thighs, cut into bite sized pieces, for the shrimp or use kielbasa or chorizo instead of smoked sausage for a spicier variation. For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon or prosciutto crisps instead of traditional bacon. Vegetarians can enjoy this dish by omitting the meat proteins entirely and adding sautéed mushrooms which provide umami richness and a satisfying texture.

Serving Suggestions

This rich pasta deserves a simple accompaniment that balances its decadence. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides welcome acidity that cuts through the creamy sauce. Garlic bread makes an excellent side for soaking up any extra sauce but consider a lighter option like roasted asparagus or broccolini if serving for a dinner party. A chilled glass of unoaked Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering the complex taste profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rotini is recommended for its ability to hold the creamy sauce, you can use penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I substitute the seafood seasoning?

Absolutely. You can use Old Bay seasoning, Cajun spice, or even a mix of salt, paprika, and celery seeds for a customized flavor.

→ What other cheeses work in this dish?

You can substitute or add Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a slightly different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce while it's cooking.

→ Can I cook this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and proteins in advance, but cook the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.