Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Cajun seasoning with the creaminess of a pasta sauce. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals. This dish is not just delicious; it’s quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a delightful mix of spices, shrimp, and creamy goodness, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the garlic and shrimp to the skillet, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and stir well.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Serve the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot. You can add extra parsley on top for a fresh touch. It pairs well with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2-3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to regain its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

For added flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the Cajun seasoning for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
Taste the sauce before adding more salt, as the Cajun seasoning can be salty.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they just need to be pink and opaque to be perfectly tender.

Variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the shrimp with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini. You can also use other types of protein, like chicken or sausage, if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with a mix of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.

3. Is there a dairy-free version of this pasta?
Yes! You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta