Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, a rich cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Infused with Cajun spices and colorful vegetables, this recipe is a quick and satisfying dinner option for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family with this gourmet-style meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
½ cup diced tomatoes
½ cup chopped bell peppers (red and yellow)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

Cook the Pasta:
- Boil fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add butter. Sauté garlic, onion, and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
Make the Sauce:
- Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Everything:
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Protein Options: Substitute shrimp with chicken, sausage, or tofu.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the shrimp and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

FAQs

1. What is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano, offering a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.

2. Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild variety.

3. What pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine is classic, but linguine, spaghetti, or penne work just as well.

4. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The sauce and shrimp can be prepared in advance and combined with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

6. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream.

7. How do I keep the shrimp tender?

Avoid overcooking. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape.

8. Can I add other seafood?

Yes, scallops, crab, or mussels would be delicious additions.

9. Is Parmesan cheese necessary?

Parmesan adds depth to the sauce, but you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

10. What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and a hint of spice, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your home. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal made right in your kitchen!