Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, spicy Cajun seasoning, and a velvety cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This one-pan meal is quick to prepare and delivers bold flavors, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of heat, creaminess, and seafood is absolutely irresistible.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined)olive oilbutterCajun seasoninggarlic (minced)heavy creamparmesan cheesepasta (fettuccine or penne works well)chicken broth (optional for thinning the sauce)parsley (for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Add the shrimp and season generously with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp is opaque and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Add parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

Add the cooked pasta and mix everything together until well combined.

If needed, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Substitute chicken for shrimp if preferred.

Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Try smoked sausage along with shrimp for a Cajun surf-and-turf twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

What type of shrimp works best?

Medium to large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, are ideal for this recipe.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

Cajun seasoning has a moderate kick; adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, linguine, penne, or even spaghetti work well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut milk and dairy-free cheese, but it will change the flavor profile.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer a few extra minutes or add more parmesan cheese for a thicker consistency.

What can I serve with Cajun shrimp pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh as the shrimp can become overcooked when reheated.

What’s the best way to reheat?

Gently warm it on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare. With its spicy kick and luscious cream sauce, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for something rich and indulgent. Perfect for any night of the week, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.