Introduction
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a rich and spicy dish that perfectly balances bold Cajun flavors with a velvety, cheesy sauce. Featuring succulent shrimp, a creamy tomato-based sauce, and al dente pasta, this meal is both indulgent and satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this pasta dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 30 minutes.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Bold Cajun Flavor: A blend of Cajun seasoning and paprika creates a smoky, spicy kick.
✔ Creamy and Indulgent: Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese add richness to the sauce.
✔ Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Juicy and tender, with a slight char from the seasoning.
-Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
-2. Season and Cook the Shrimp
1. Pat the shrimp dry and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
-3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream, tomato sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
-4. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
2. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine.
-5. Garnish and Serve
1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot, optionally with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
-Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
Pair with a side salad for a lighter touch.
Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
-Tips for Success
✅ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly and should be removed as soon as they turn pink.
✅ Adjust Spice Level: Use more or less Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control the heat.
✅ Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
✅ Reserve Pasta Water: Helps loosen the sauce and make it creamy without adding more cream.
-Variations
Chicken Cajun Pasta: Swap shrimp for sliced chicken breast.
Extra Creamy Version: Add 2 oz of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Seafood Medley: Add scallops or lobster for an even more luxurious dish.
Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms.
-Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate when reheated.
-Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~500 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 20g
-The Story Behind Cajun Pasta
Cajun cuisine originates from Louisiana, blending French, African, and Spanish influences. Cajun pasta is a modern twist, incorporating bold spices, creamy sauce, and rich seafood flavors. It’s a comforting yet elegant dish that brings a taste of the South to your dinner table.
-Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With bold Cajun spices, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender shrimp, it’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, creamy, spicy pasta that’s full of flavor !