Description
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish bursting with bold Cajun spices, succulent shrimp, and tender pasta. This restaurant-quality meal is quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- This dish works well with other proteins like chicken or sausage if shrimp isn’t available.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired