Print

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Print Recipe

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines tender, spicy shrimp with al dente pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This quick and easy dish features bold Cajun seasoning, garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter

Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter (additional if needed)

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water for later use, and set aside.
  2. Season and Cook the Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning until well coated. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken, then mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat in the creamy, spicy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Finish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp to prevent rubberiness.
  • Toasting Cajun seasoning briefly in the pan before adding liquids enhances its flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without watering down the flavor.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness and vibrancy when added at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp pasta, creamy pasta, spicy shrimp, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, seafood pasta

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/cajun-shrimp-pasta/