Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta

Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves rich, creamy, and hearty pasta dishes. This recipe combines juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and crispy bacon in a velvety cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. It is bold, filling, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for family dinners, weekend meals, or anytime you want a restaurant-style pasta at home. The balance of seafood, meat, and cheese creates a satisfying dish that feels indulgent while still being easy to prepare in one pan.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Reserved pasta water, as needed

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or deep pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir frequently so it cooks evenly. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon grease in the pan for added flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Add the sliced sausage to the same skillet and cook until lightly browned on both sides. This step enhances the smoky flavor and adds texture. Remove the sausage and set aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add butter to the skillet, then add the shrimp. Season lightly with salt and pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly. Add salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Add the Cheese
Gradually stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce becomes too thick.

Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Stir in the bacon, sausage, and shrimp, mixing gently so everything is evenly distributed. Let the pasta simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Variations

• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture
• Swap shrimp for chicken if preferred
• Use spicy sausage for added heat
• Try a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Pair with a simple green salad
• Add roasted vegetables on the side
• Finish with extra parmesan and fresh parsley

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Conclusion

Cheesy Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together creamy cheese sauce, tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and crispy bacon in one irresistible meal. It is perfect for comfort food lovers and guaranteed to impress with its bold flavors and creamy texture.