Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

The Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines the smokiness and spice of Cajun seasoning with juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. Originating from the vibrant Cajun cuisine of Louisiana, this dish has gained popularity worldwide for its irresistible balance of heat and comfort.

What makes this pasta special is how quickly it comes together. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal bursting with flavor. The shrimp cook in minutes, the Cajun cream sauce is rich but not heavy, and the pasta ties everything together into a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast yet impressive, but it’s also elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re enjoying a gourmet dish without stepping foot outside your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect mix of creamy, spicy, and savory. The shrimp are juicy and tender, coated in smoky Cajun seasoning, while the creamy sauce balances the heat beautifully. Every forkful is exciting—flavorful shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety sauce that clings to the noodles.

Another reason I love it is its simplicity. Even though it tastes luxurious, it’s surprisingly quick and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all evening.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a must-try because:

• It’s fast and easy—ready in under 30 minutes.
• It delivers big, bold flavors with minimal ingredients.
• It’s versatile—you can make it mild or spicy, creamy or light.
• It’s restaurant-worthy but budget-friendly to make at home.

If you love pasta and shrimp, this dish is a guaranteed winner.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Cajun / American Fusion
• Calories: ~600–650 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
   • Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
   • In the same skillet, melt butter.
   • Sauté onion and bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened.
   • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Finish the Sauce
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens.
   • Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine Everything
   • Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet.
   • Toss everything until well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish
   • Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in large pasta bowls.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• A chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) pairs beautifully with the spicy, creamy flavors.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook very quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
• Spice control: Use more or less Cajun seasoning depending on your heat preference.
• Fresh Parmesan is key: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Pasta water trick: Save a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

Variations

1. Extra Veggies – Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrition.
2. Protein Swap – Replace shrimp with chicken, sausage, or a combo of both.
3. Lighter Version – Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
4. Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
5. Cheesy Twist – Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for an even richer sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce can separate and shrimp can get rubbery. If freezing, freeze only the sauce (without shrimp) for up to 1 month.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Conclusion

The Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With its juicy shrimp, smoky Cajun spices, and creamy sauce wrapped around tender pasta, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes—spicy, savory, creamy, and comforting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Pasta

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 600–650 calories per serving

Description

The Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines the smokiness and spice of Cajun seasoning with juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g)
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Finish the Sauce: Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything until well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Keywords: Cajun Shrimp Pasta