Craving a quick, creamy, and spicy shrimp pasta that feels like a restaurant-quality meal at home? This Cajun shrimp pasta recipe is your answer. With tender shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, and a hint of Cajun spice, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Tip: Use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own for a bolder flavor.
Prep: Get Everything Ready
Start by prepping your shrimp—peel, devein, and pat them dry. Slice the bell pepper and onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your cream and Parmesan. Having everything ready ensures the cooking process is smooth and stress-free.
Cooking the Pasta Perfectly
Boil salted water and cook the fettuccine or linguine until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water. This starchy water will help thin the sauce later if needed, keeping it creamy without being too thick.
Sautéing the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook shrimp in batches if necessary for even searing.
Building the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In the same skillet, add remaining butter, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Secret Tip: Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles perfectly.
Combining Pasta & Shrimp
Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to coat evenly. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp. Let everything heat together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully.
Serving & Garnish
Plate your Cajun shrimp pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a full meal.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a chilled white wine or a sparkling lemonade for the ultimate flavor experience.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Low-Carb / Keto: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Extra Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Creamy but Lighter: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Always dry shrimp before cooking to prevent steaming.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Don’t overcook shrimp—they only need a few minutes.
- Toast Cajun seasoning slightly in the pan for a richer aroma.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as cream sauce can separate when frozen.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this Cajun shrimp pasta spicy?
A: Absolutely! Add extra cayenne, hot sauce, or more Cajun seasoning to taste.
Q: What pasta works best for this recipe?
A: Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti all work well. Wide noodles hold the sauce beautifully.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, but add them at the very end to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I make it dairy-free?
A: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese.
Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Prep ingredients ahead of time, but cook shrimp and sauce just before serving for best flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a weeknight game-changer. Ready in 20 minutes, full of bold flavors, and easy enough for any home cook. It’s rich, spicy, and downright addictive. Give it a try, and it might just become your new favorite seafood dinner!
