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Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time10 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time30 mins

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold and creamy dish featuring fettuccine coated in a rich, spicy Cajun sauce with juicy, blackened shrimp. This flavorful pasta is perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their comfort food, making it a great weeknight meal or special dinner.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

For the Shrimp
 ½ kg large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
 1 tbsp olive oil
 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
 ½ tsp paprika
 ¼ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp black peppe
 ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Pasta
 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Cajun Cream Sauce
 2 tbsp unsalted butter
 3 cloves garlic (minced)
 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
 ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
 1 cup heavy cream
 ½ cup chicken broth or pasta water
 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
 Salt and black pepper to taste
 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Cook the Pasta
1

  • Boil Water:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the Pasta:
    • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10 minutes).
  • Reserve Pasta Water:
    • Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to use in the sauce.
  • Drain and Set Aside:
    • Drain the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Shrimp
2

  • Season the Shrimp:
    • In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Sear the Shrimp:
    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
    • Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
  • Remove from Heat:
    • Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
3

  • Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic:
    • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add Cajun Seasoning and Spices:
    • Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  • Pour in the Liquids:
    • Add the heavy cream and chicken broth (or pasta water), stirring to combine.
  • Simmer the Sauce:
    • Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Stir in Parmesan and Lemon Juice:
    • Add Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, stirring until smooth.
  • Season to Taste:
    • Add salt and black pepper as needed.
Combine Everything
4

  • Toss in the Pasta:
    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce.
  • Add the Shrimp:
    • Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, gently mixing everything together.
  • Simmer for 1 Minute:
    • Allow the flavors to blend.
Serving Suggestions
5

  • Plate the Pasta:
    • Serve hot on plates or in pasta bowls.
  • Garnish:
    • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  • Pair with:
    • Garlic bread, a side salad, or a glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc).
Pro Tips
6

  • For Extra Creaminess: Add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce Cajun seasoning or omit red pepper flakes for a milder dish.
  • Use Other Proteins: Try this with grilled chicken or salmon for a different twist.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size