Craving a pasta dish with a kick? This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy goodness, bold Cajun spices, and succulent shrimp. The creamy sauce brings together the heat of Cajun seasoning with the richness of heavy cream, making every bite irresistible. Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it up with your favorite salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal!
INGREDIENTS :
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes (for added spice)
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
INSTRUCTIONS :
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Season the shrimp: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Pat the shrimp dry and toss them with the spice mixture until well coated.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine the pasta and shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta to a serving dish, garnish with chopped parsley, and top with crushed red pepper flakes (optional). Serve immediately!
NOTES :
- Substitutions: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also swap the shrimp for chicken or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Make it spicier: If you love heat, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
- Creamy and tangy: Add a splash of white wine vinegar or a squeeze of extra lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Serving suggestions: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the pasta.
NUTRITION FACTS (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion :
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of heat, creaminess, and bold flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With just the right amount of spice and a silky smooth sauce, it’s a meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Give it a try tonight and elevate your pasta game!
