CategoryMain Courses, Pasta, Seafood
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.
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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.
Ingredients
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)
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