Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you want a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, look no further than this irresistible Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. With plump, juicy shrimp tossed in bold Cajun spices and nestled in a silky, cheesy sauce, it’s pure comfort with a little spicy kick. The noodles soak up every drop of flavor, while a generous shower of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon add that final, zesty flourish. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is as reliable as it is irresistible!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a huge list to pull together this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta — every ingredient is simple but essential, with each one contributing its own magic to the rich, spicy, and creamy result. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few pro tips to help you get the most flavor out of every component.
- Pasta (12 ounces fettuccine or linguine): These wide, sturdy noodles grab onto creamy sauces beautifully for a perfect bite every time.
- Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled & deveined): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the juiciest texture and sweetest flavor.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon, plus more): This spice blend brings heat, zest, and that unmistakable smoky Southern flavor—add extra if you love more fire!
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing the shrimp until they’re golden and adding a little fruity depth to the overall sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic perfumes the sauce and amps up the savoriness.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Key to the luscious, velvety texture in every swirl—don’t skimp here!
- Chicken broth (½ cup): It lightens the sauce just enough, lending savory backbone and balance.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): For that essential salty, nutty, melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Adds a pop of umami and a hint of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the heat with a subtle, smoky depth that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A little kick of spice that brightens everything up.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Helps bring all the flavors into delicious harmony.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds silkiness to the sauce and wonderful richness as you finish everything in the pan.
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges (for garnish): A fresh burst of color and brightness just before serving (don’t skip these—they make a difference!).
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your fettuccine or linguine according to the package directions until it’s just al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid will help loosen your sauce just enough later, so don’t forget it!
Step 2: Season and Sear the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry (this step helps them get a gorgeous sear) and toss with the Cajun seasoning until they’re thoroughly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be quick — overcooked shrimp lose their juiciness! Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Start the Sauce
In the same pan, turn the heat down to medium, add butter, and toss in your minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, swirling the pan and letting the garlic turn fragrant but not brown. This is your flavor powerhouse base for the whole Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Add tomato paste, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk and stir everything together as it heats, letting the sauce gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. It should thicken slightly and become glossy. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning or a hint of cayenne now.
Step 5: Toss in Pasta and Shrimp
Add your cooked noodles into the skillet, tossing to fully coat them in the creamy, smoky sauce. If it seems a little thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you’ve reached a glossy, luscious texture. Return the seared shrimp to the pan, toss everything together, and let it all heat through for just a minute more. That’s all it takes!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
A flurry of freshly chopped parsley brightens every bite, and a few squeezes of lemon add the perfect sunny tang to cut through the richness. For a touch of drama and more flavor, try an extra sprinkle of Cajun seasoning or some shaved Parmesan right before serving — these little touches transform your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta from casual dinner to an all-out feast.
Side Dishes
Pair your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with big hunks of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every drop of luscious sauce. A crisp green salad (think arugula, romaine, or mixed baby greens) dressed lightly with lemony vinaigrette balances out the spice and richness, while roasted or sautéed asparagus makes for a deeply satisfying Southern-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, pile the pasta high in a big warm serving bowl, scatter shrimp and garnishes on top, and present it right at the table for everyone to dig in. For more elegant occasions, twirl individual nests of pasta with shrimp perched artfully on top, drizzled with a little extra sauce and a wedge of lemon on the side. This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is also beautiful when served in shallow pasta bowls — don’t forget an extra flourish of fresh herbs!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta keeps surprisingly well for a day or two in the fridge. Place cooled portions into an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but a splash of water or cream when reheating will bring it right back to its luscious glory.
Freezing
While the shrimp itself freezes well, the creamy sauce can sometimes separate when thawed. If you do want to freeze, portion the cooled pasta and shrimp into freezer-safe containers, but be aware that the sauce’s texture might change. For the best results, freeze just the shrimp in its seasoning, and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, add a splash of milk, cream, or even chicken broth to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently in a saucepan or microwave, stirring occasionally. Try not to overheat, as shrimp can toughen easily. A quick warm-up is all you need — finish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine cling to the creamy sauce beautifully, penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free noodles work just fine. Use what you have or what you love most.
How spicy is this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
The heat level is moderate — enough to tingle your taste buds without blowing your head off! If you prefer it totally mild, reduce the Cajun seasoning slightly, and for maximum fire, add a pinch of cayenne or an extra shake of seasoning.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but for best flavor and texture, raw shrimp is the way to go. If you’re in a pinch, toss pre-cooked shrimp with the seasoning and just warm it through in the sauce, being careful not to overcook.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The sauce will be less rich but still satisfyingly creamy, and you’ll likely shave off a bit of fat, too.
What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, make a quick blend at home with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and a bit of salt and pepper. Adjust to taste for your own signature twist!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a hug and tastes like a flavor explosion, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is calling your name. It’s weeknight-friendly, company-worthy, and guaranteed to earn rave reviews from anyone you share it with. Try it for yourself and discover just how tasty, comforting, and addictive this recipe can be!
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a creamy, flavorful delight with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe. Perfectly seasoned shrimp paired with a rich, spicy sauce over a bed of fettuccine. A Cajun-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to make!
Ingredients
Fettuccine or Linguine:
12 ounces,
Large Shrimp:
1 pound, peeled and deveined,
Cajun Seasoning:
1 tablespoon (plus more to taste),
Olive Oil:
2 tablespoons,
Garlic:
3 cloves, minced,
Heavy Cream:
1 cup,
Chicken Broth:
½ cup,
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
½ cup,
Tomato Paste:
1 tablespoon,
Smoked Paprika:
1 teaspoon,
Black Pepper:
¼ teaspoon,
Salt:
¼ teaspoon,
Butter:
1 tablespoon,
Garnish:
Chopped parsley and lemon wedges
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the shrimp: Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook in olive oil until pink. Set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: Sauté garlic, add tomato paste, cream, broth, Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Toss pasta in sauce, add shrimp, and heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Top with parsley and lemon wedges before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne or more Cajun seasoning.
- You can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
