Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s gonna change your life. Cajun Shrimp Pasta. This isn’t your average weeknight dinner. What’s a flavor explosion? I swear, every time I make this, it disappears within minutes! What are some of the best recipes for Alfredo and Jambalaya? What are some of the best flavors in this drink? Is it easier than making gumbo? Is this recipe really necessary in life?
What is Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
What is Cajun Shrimp Pasta? What is essentially a creamy pasta dish kicked up with the vibrant flavors of Cajun seasoning. What are some of the best succulent shrimp Picture perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, onions, bell peppers and celery. What are Cajun spices? Imagine tender, juicy shrimp swimming in that sauce, adding a touch of sweetness and seafood. What is comfort food with a fiery twist? It gets its soul from the blend of spices and the holy trinity of Cajun cooking – onions, bells and peppers. What are peppers and celery? Think of it as a big, warm hug, but with some spice to keep things interesting.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some good reasons to eat Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
- Flavor Fiesta:What is the taste of a cigarette that is out of this world? The creamy sauce is balanced perfectly with the heat of the Cajun spices, the sweetness of toasted almonds, and the sourness of cajun nuts. What is the best way to eat shrimp, and the fresh veggies I promise you it’s a party in your mouth!
- Super Simple:What are the best flavors to make with this recipe? From start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes, tops. What is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you just want something delicious without spending. How many hours do you spend in the kitchen?
- Budget FriendlyCan you buy a ton of shrimp for this recipe? What are some pantry staples that most people already have on hand? I often buy frozen shrimp when it’s on sale, and it works perfectly.
- Versatility Queen:What are some of the most versatile recipes? Can you use any type of pasta you like – fettuccine, penne, pasta, you name it! What are some ways to adjust the spice level to your liking, add different veggies, or even swap out the spices. Can you substitute shrimp for chicken or sausage? I’ve even made it with crawfish when I can get my hands on some!
What I love most is how adaptable it is. Sometimes, I add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor, or squeeze of lemon. Lemon juice to brighten it up. I tried it with almond milk and it was still amazing! I want to order a pizza but don’t want takeout. It’s my go-to place. For a vegetarian twist, try it with mushrooms and zucchini! Seriously, you can’t go wrong.
How do I make Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
Quick Overview
How do you make Cajun Shrimp Pasta? What is the best way to sauté veggies and shrimp in butter with Cajun seasoning? How do you make a creamy sauce with Parmesan cheese and more spices? What are some good ways to toss cooked pasta together with fresh parsley? What’s the best part? Everything comes together in one pan, so cleanup is a snap! I’m a beginner cook. I promise, even if you’re just starting out, you can nail this recipe.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Shrimp: For The cajun
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (I like to leave the tails on for presentation, but that’s not a good idea). Is it optional?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 teaspoon garlic.
- 1 tablespoon butter. 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (I usually make my own, but store-bought works great too) .
What is Creamy Sauce?
- 1 cup heavy cream is enough for a single person
- 12 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is always best)
- 14 cup chopped fresh parsley.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- What are some good red pepper flakes?
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- Water for boiling.
- Salt for boiling water.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Can you drain pasta in a bowl? This pasta water is gold – it helps the sauce cling to the pasta and adds a nice creaminess.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be nice and tender, not crunchy.
Step 3: Add the Garlic and Shrimp
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t overcook shrimp, or they’ll become rubbery.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add a little more of the reserved pasta water. This is where you can adjust the sauce to your liking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. I like to serve it with a side of garlic bread or steamed salad. What are some good ways to use hot sauce?
What should I serve it with?
How do I make Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
For a weeknight dinner: What is the best
- What is a simple side salad served with olive oil?
- Garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
For a Weekend Feast:
- Corn on the cob
- Coleslaw
- Hushpuppies
For a Special Occasion:
- A bottle of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- A fancy dessert, like chocolate lava cake or tiramisu
In my family, we always have a big loaf of crusty bread on the side to soak up all that delicious sauce. My kids love dipping it in! A cold beer or iced tea also goes perfectly with this spicy dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Cajun Shrimp Pasta even better:
Shrimp Prep:
- Buy shrimp that’s already peeled and deveined to save time.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw it completely before cooking.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before cooking to help it brown better.
Cajun Seasoning:
- Make your own Cajun seasoning for a more customized flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Sauce Consistency:
- Don’t overcook the sauce, or it will become too thick.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Pasta Cooking:
- Cook the pasta al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
- Reserve some of the pasta water before draining.
- Add the pasta to the sauce immediately after cooking.
Ingredient Swaps:
- Swap out the shrimp for chicken, sausage, or tofu.
- Add different vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as penne, linguine, or rotini.
I once accidentally added too much Cajun seasoning and it was almost inedible! Now, I always start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. Also, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a HUGE difference in the flavor of the sauce. Trust me on this one!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator Storage:
- Store the Cajun Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the pasta is completely cool before storing it.
Reheating:
- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta while reheating to prevent it from drying out.
- Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Freezing:
- I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the sauce may separate and the pasta may become mushy.
- If you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
- Thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
I find that the pasta tastes best when it’s fresh, but leftovers are still pretty darn good! Just be sure to add a little extra moisture when reheating to keep it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe that’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. What more could you ask for? If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors and creamy pasta dishes, you absolutely HAVE to try this recipe. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly night or a fun and festive meal for a special occasion. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Creamy Tomato Pasta or my Shrimp Scampi. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Shrimp
- 1 pound Pasta
- 0.5 cup Butter
- 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
