Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, making this dish an irresistible combination of spice and creaminess. It is a restaurant-quality meal that can be prepared at home with simple ingredients, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. The smoky flavors of paprika, garlic, and onion blend beautifully with the juicy shrimp, while the creamy sauce balances out the spice for a harmonious taste.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Season the Shrimp – In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning to ensure they are well-coated.
- Sauté the Shrimp – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce – In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
- Add Seasonings – Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese – Reduce heat to low and gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Combine Everything – Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Return shrimp to the pan along with lemon juice and cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and serve hot. Enjoy your rich and creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta!
This dish offers the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy the bold Cajun flavors in every bite!