Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a bold and flavorful dish featuring juicy, spiced shrimp tossed in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce with tender pasta. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spicy & Creamy The perfect balance of heat and richness.
• Quick & Easy Ready in just 30 minutes.
• One-Pan Meal Less cleanup, more flavor!
• Customizable Adjust spice levels or add veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cajun Shrimp:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil or butter
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• Fettuccine or penne pasta
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken or seafood broth
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Cajun seasoning
• Paprika
• Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Salt & black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Shrimp:

1. Season the Shrimp Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Sear the Shrimp Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.

Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

1. Sauté Garlic In the same skillet, melt butter and cook garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Broth & Cream Stir in chicken or seafood broth, then add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Season & Thicken Add Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.

Combine & Serve:

1. Cook the Pasta Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with the sauce.
2. Add the Shrimp Return shrimp to the skillet and mix well.
3. Garnish & Serve Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Veggie Boost Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Protein Swap Use chicken or sausage instead of shrimp.
• Low-Carb Option Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream.
• Freeze Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add it at the end to prevent overcooking.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work best.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. A mix of milk and butter works better.

What sides go well with Cajun shrimp pasta?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables complement it well.

Can I use homemade Cajun seasoning?

Yes! Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and black pepper.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.

What’s the best way to get a smoky flavor?

Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté shrimp, then cook pasta with broth on high pressure for 4 minutes. Stir in cream and cheese at the end.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that’s packed with spice, richness, and tender shrimp. Whether you love bold flavors or creamy comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today for an easy and delicious meal!

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