This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a zesty and creamy dish that’s sure to please! With juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and a kick of Cajun spices, every bite is bursting with flavor.
You’ll want to savor every spoonful of this pasta. I usually pair it with a nice salad because, let’s face it, carbs need some greens to make it all feel balanced, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine is ideal for this dish because the thick noodles hold onto the creamy sauce well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. I also love using penne—it adds a fun twist!
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best, but you can use medium ones if that’s what you have. Frozen shrimp is a great option too! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. If you’re vegetarian, mushrooms can be a tasty substitute for a similar texture.
Cajun Seasoning: The seasoning blend is key for flavor. If you don’t have any, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. Feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or cashew cream can work well too. I’ve also used coconut milk for a unique twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but they can overcook fast! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat; this helps the shrimp cook evenly.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and don’t crowd the pan. This allows each piece to sear nicely.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re pink and opaque. Take them out as soon as they’re done to prevent overcooking!
Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender, juicy, and have a nice spring to them. If they curl into a tight circle, it’s a sign they’ve been cooked too long!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Seafood:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Oils:
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Fresh Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Creamy Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing your ingredients and then around 20 minutes cooking everything, so it’s a quick option for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water!
2. Season the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning in a bowl. Make sure they are evenly coated so every bite is flavorful!
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Next, add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s tender.
5. Add Tomatoes and Simmer:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let their juices release into the mixture.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-5 minutes. This is where the sauce starts to thicken up!
7. Mix in the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and the sauce is creamy. Taste, then season with salt, pepper, and if you like some heat, add optional red pepper flakes!
8. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Finally, add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything gently together. If the sauce seems too thick, pour in a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.
9. Finish with Parsley:
Stir in the chopped parsley and taste again to adjust any seasoning if needed.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with extra parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, creamy, spicy Cajun shrimp pasta!
Dig in and savor the explosion of flavors! 😋
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag placed in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream, which will impart a subtle flavor and a nice creaminess to the dish.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love a fiery kick, add more Cajun seasoning than the recipe calls for, or sprinkle in extra red pepper flakes. You could also sauté some diced jalapeños with the onions for an additional spicy layer!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave or warm them on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if it thickens up too much.
