Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Prep Time: 15 minutes

 Cook Time: 20 minutes

 Total Time: 35 minutes

 Servings: 4

 Difficulty: Easy

Introduction

Bold, creamy, spicy, and full of juicy shrimp — this Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish you can whip up in just over 30 minutes. It’s everything you love about Cajun cuisine in one indulgent bowl: perfectly seasoned shrimp sautéed to perfection, tossed in a rich cream sauce with Cajun spices, and swirled with fettuccine or linguine.

This dish is perfect for date nights, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to bring a little Louisiana heat into your kitchen. And yes, it’s as mouthwatering as it sounds.

Ingredients

 For the Cajun Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade — see below!)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 clove garlic, minced

 For the Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta

• Salt (for pasta water)

 For the Cream Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• A handful of chopped parsley (for garnish)

• Optional: squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Homemade Cajun Seasoning (Optional)

If you’d rather make your own, here’s a quick blend (makes about 3 tbsp):

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp thyme

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

Mix it up and store in an airtight container. Adjust the cayenne for your heat preference!

Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Season & Sauté the Shrimp

Pat your shrimp dry and toss them with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once hot, add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and slightly crisp at the edges. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook shrimp in batches if needed to get a nice sear.

 Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Optional: Add a lemon slice to your pasta water for a subtle citrus hint.

 Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

In the same skillet used for shrimp, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.

Note: For a cheesier version, add an extra ¼ cup Parmesan or a handful of mozzarella.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix everything together.

Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors mingle. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

 Optional Garnishes

• More grated Parmesan

• Chopped green onions

• Red pepper flakes (if you like extra heat!)

• Lemon zest

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately with warm garlic bread, a crisp side salad, or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.

Want to elevate the experience? Pair with a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the creaminess and spice.

Make It Your Own – Variations

Protein Swap:

• Use chicken, andouille sausage, or scallops instead of shrimp.

Vegetarian Option:

• Skip the shrimp and use mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-friendly version.

Add Veggies:

• Bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or baby spinach are great additions.

Lighter Version:

• Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or half-and-half. Use less cheese or skip it altogether for a dairy-light dish.

Difficulty & Intensity

• Skill Level: Easy

• Why: Basic techniques — sautéing, boiling pasta, and making a cream sauce.

• Intensity: Low. It’s perfect for beginners looking to impress.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Note: Nutrition may vary based on pasta type and cream used.

Leftovers & Storage

To Store:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Microwave in short bursts if needed, stirring in between.

Freezing Not Recommended: The creamy sauce may separate after freezing.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect mix of southern spice and Italian comfort. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this flavorful dish always hits the spot.

Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it ends up on regular dinner rotation — it’s that good.