Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shrimp, a rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. The dish is made with bold Cajun seasoning, garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With a balance of spice and creaminess, this easy Cajun shrimp pasta is a must-try recipe that’s quick to prepare and sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (or adjust to taste)
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 Tbsp parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve some of the pasta water for the sauce, then drain and keep warm.
2. Prepare the shrimp: Coat the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine the sauce ingredients: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine shrimp and pasta: Add the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce and everything is heated through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a perfect blend of bold Cajun spices and creamy richness. The shrimp are succulent and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the smooth sauce and pasta. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s sure to impress, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Tips

• Pasta tip: Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
• Adjusting spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. If you like it spicier, add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creaminess: For a richer sauce, you can substitute half and half for the heavy cream or add a little more Parmesan.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian option: Replace the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute and dairy-free cheese to make the dish dairy-free.
• Pasta choice: While penne is the recommended pasta, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

What can I serve with Cajun shrimp pasta?
You can serve this pasta with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to balance the rich flavors of the dish. For a lighter option, serve it with a refreshing cucumber or arugula salad.