This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful dish bursting with spices and tender shrimp. The creamy sauce clings deliciously to the pasta, making every bite a treat!
Cooking this is like a mini dance party in the kitchen! 🕺 I love pairing it with a fresh salad for a perfect dinner. It’s quick and makes you feel like a chef every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend fettuccine or linguine for a lovely texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use spaghetti or even gluten-free pasta if needed. The key is a long noodle that can hold the sauce well.
Shrimp: The large shrimp really shine in this dish. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp works just as well. Just remember to thaw them beforehand! For a different take, try using scallops or chicken strips instead.
Cajun seasoning: You can find Cajun seasoning ready-made, but if you’re feeling adventurous, mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. It gives more control over the spice level!
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The cream gives a rich texture, but you don’t want it to overpower the dish.
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The creamy sauce is the heart of this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it’s smooth and flavorful:
- Start with sautéing garlic in butter. This brings out its flavor, making your sauce aromatic.
- When you add the chicken broth, let it simmer to slightly reduce. This concentrates the flavors before you add the cream.
- Add the cream slowly and stir well to combine, then toss in the Parmesan cheese. It adds a cheesy richness that pairs beautifully with the Cajun seasoning.
Mix everything well, and remember to taste before serving! Adjust with more salt or pepper as needed for balance.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. With around 10 minutes for prep and another 20 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a small bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning. Make sure each shrimp is well coated with those flavorful spices!
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. After cooking, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Create the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add in the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and inviting!
5. Add Flavors:
Pour in the chicken broth and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly for more concentrated flavors.
6. Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well and let the sauce thicken slightly; this makes for a rich, creamy texture.
7. Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the creamy sauce evenly. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together until the pasta is perfectly covered with the sauce.
8. Final Seasoning:
Season the pasta dish with salt and black pepper to taste, adding just enough to enhance the exciting flavors!
9. Serve It Up:
Garnish your Cajun Shrimp Pasta with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Dig into this creamy, spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta that balances bold Cajun flavors with rich and comforting pasta. It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can do this by placing the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quick thaw.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this Cajun Shrimp Pasta dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning for added flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to freshen it up!
What Pasta Can I Use as a Substitute?
If you don’t have fettuccine or linguine, any long pasta like spaghetti or pappardelle will work well. You can also use penne or bowtie pasta if you prefer shorter shapes—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
