If you’re a fan of spicy, savory dishes, this Cajun Shrimp Pasta will be an instant favorite. The smoky Cajun seasoning pairs beautifully with tender shrimp and a rich cream sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Plus, you can customize the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shrimp, peeled and deveined Cajun seasoning olive oil butter garlic, minced heavy cream chicken broth or white wine Parmesan cheese, grated fettuccine or your preferred pasta salt and black pepper parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and let it reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use andouille sausage or chicken instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
Swap fettuccine for penne, linguine, or spaghetti.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning to make it milder or spicier depending on your heat preference.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Use large or jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (and thawed) shrimp both work well.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version to lower the heat level.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead, but it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh for optimal texture.
Is Cajun Shrimp Pasta gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.
What kind of pasta works best?
Fettuccine is ideal, but penne, linguine, or spaghetti also work great.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end just to heat through to avoid overcooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or coconut milk can be used as substitutes, though the sauce may be less rich.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and the shrimp can become rubbery after thawing.
What side dishes go well with this pasta?
Serve it with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delicious, spicy, and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers bold flavors and comforting textures every time. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce tossed over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough to make at home.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter (plus more if needed)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and let it reduce slightly.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Use andouille sausage or chicken instead of shrimp for a different protein option.Swap fettuccine for penne, linguine, or spaghetti.Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.Adjust the Cajun seasoning to make it milder or spicier depending on your heat preference.
