Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is packed with juicy shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or seafood broth)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook fettuccine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cajun Shrimp:
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Season the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
-
Sauté Garlic:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Make the Sauce:
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Cajun seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Melt the Parmesan:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add cherry tomatoes (if using) and let simmer for 1 more minute.
Assemble & Serve:
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Toss Pasta in Sauce:
- Add cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat.
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Add Shrimp & Garnish:
- Return shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
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Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad!
Notes
- Want more spice? Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
- Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for 3 days—reheat gently with a splash of cream.