If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts comforting and bold, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is about to swoop in and steal the show. Imagine a silky, spiced cream sauce clinging to ribbons of pasta, tangled with plump Cajun-dusted shrimp, bell peppers, and a flurry of Parmesan. Every forkful is a little celebration—rich, zesty, and luxuriously creamy, yet it comes together in just thirty minutes. Whether you’re feeding family on a weeknight or impressing friends on the weekend, this is the kind of meal that brings people together and earns rave reviews every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple ingredients—each one adding something special, from the vibrant color of peppers to the kick of Cajun spice. Don’t skip any; they’re all essential to building those irresistible layers of flavor and texture that make this dish a favorite.
- Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works beautifully to soak up the creamy sauce and cradle those juicy shrimp.
- Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the star—tender, sweet, and quick-cooking.
- Cajun seasoning: This bold spice blend brings heat, depth, and signature flavor—adjust to taste for your perfect spice level.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the shrimp to golden perfection while adding a subtle fruity note.
- Butter: Adds richness and rounds out the sauce for that signature creamy finish.
- Garlic: Four cloves add an aromatic, savory base—don’t skimp!
- Yellow onion: Diced finely, it melts into the sauce and adds natural sweetness.
- Red bell pepper: For a pop of color and gentle crunch that balances the creamy richness.
- Heavy cream: The key to that luscious, velvety texture—pure comfort in every bite.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best, infusing the sauce with nutty, salty goodness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the whole dish just right.
- Chopped parsley: A fresh, green finish that brightens up every plate.
- Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze at the end lifts the flavors and cuts through the creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package directions until perfectly al dente—it should still have a little bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but reserve a splash of pasta water just in case you want to thin the sauce later. This step is simple, but it’s the foundation for all the creamy Cajun flavors to come.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta bubbles away, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning, making sure every piece gets a generous coating. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly golden at the edges. Remove them to a plate—don’t overcook, as they’ll finish in the sauce later!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt, picking up all those flavorful bits from the shrimp. Toss in the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and the pepper is vibrant but still a little crisp. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds is plenty.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan and let the sauce bubble for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly and becomes silky smooth. This is where the magic happens—the sauce should coat the back of a spoon, rich and full of flavor.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Add the drained pasta and cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything with tongs until the pasta is coated in that dreamy creamy Cajun sauce and the shrimp are nestled throughout. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is a little too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Let it all mingle for a minute or two over low heat, then get ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
Nothing finishes this dish better than a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and freshness. If you love a citrusy zing, add a few lemon wedges on the side—just a squeeze brightens up all those bold Cajun flavors. And don’t forget an extra grating of Parmesan over the top for even more creamy, cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes things to the next level. Try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or serve up some crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli also make a great, simple complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, twirl the pasta into elegant nests on each plate and top with shrimp. Or, serve family-style straight from the skillet at the table for a rustic, inviting feel. Garnish with extra parsley, lemon wedges, and a dusting of Cajun seasoning for a pop of color and a hint at the flavor inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for a delicious lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
While pasta dishes with cream sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, you can freeze Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. For best results, consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s silky texture. Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often, until heated through. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause the sauce to separate and the shrimp to toughen.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps them sear nicely and prevents excess water from thinning out your sauce.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, half-and-half works well in place of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, try unsweetened coconut cream, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level really depends on your Cajun seasoning. Start with the amount in the recipe, then add more to taste if you love things extra spicy. You can always offer extra Cajun seasoning at the table for heat-seekers!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini can be added when sautéing the onion and pepper. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies and color.
What type Main Course
Fettuccine or linguine are classic choices because their wide, flat shape holds the sauce beautifully. But honestly, any pasta you love will work—penne, spaghetti, or even short shapes like rigatoni!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that feels both a little bit fancy and totally comforting, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is sure to win you—and anyone lucky enough to share it—over. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet special enough for celebrations, bursting with bold flavor and creamy decadence. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a regular favorite in your kitchen!
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines tender shrimp tossed in spicy Cajun seasoning with a rich, velvety sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of chicken broth. Served over perfectly cooked fettuccine or linguine, this dish is a flavorful, comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season and cook shrimp: While the pasta cooks, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat well with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side if desired to add a fresh, tangy brightness.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your desired spice level.
- For a lighter variation, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to not overcook the shrimp to maintain a tender texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
