Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a spicy, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Juicy, tender shrimp seasoned with bold Cajun spices are tossed in a luscious creamy sauce and served over pasta, creating a meal that’s packed with zest and warmth. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible!
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Season and Cook the Shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken or seafood broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.