Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 15 reviews

This creamy Cajun shrimp and pasta recipe is a quick and delicious dinner option that combines tender shrimp with a flavorful, creamy Cajun sauce. Made with simple ingredients and ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal that’s packed with bold flavors and creamy goodness.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 4 quarts water (enough to fill a large pasta pot)
  • 1 Tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
  • 8 ounces wide pasta noodles (such as fettuccine, pappardelle, linguine, or bucatini)

For the Cajun Shrimp:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 Tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional garnish)
  • 1-2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot with 4 quarts of water and 1 tablespoon of salt to a boil. Add 8 ounces of wide pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cajun Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
  4. Toss Pasta in Sauce and Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Cajun sauce and toss well to coat all the noodles. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up to desired consistency.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with ¼ cup chopped parsley and 1-2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta.

Notes

  • Use your favorite wide noodle such as fettuccine, pappardelle, linguine, or bucatini for best results.
  • This Cajun shrimp pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat either in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-and-pasta-recipe/