Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is spicy, smoky, and rich – a one-pan pasta dish that comes together in under 30 minutes! Juicy, seasoned shrimp are tossed in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce with tender pasta for a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. It’s the perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce:
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8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
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2 tbsp butter
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (add more for extra heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, to thin the sauce)
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Chopped parsley or green onion, for garnish
Instructions
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Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving some of the pasta water. -
Season and cook the shrimp:
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside. -
Make the creamy sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning. -
Combine everything:
Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot with extra parmesan and a wedge of lemon if desired
Notes
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For a lighter version, use half & half or a splash of milk instead of cream.
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Add bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
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Want it spicier? Add cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.