Sometimes you just need something warm and cheesy. This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta hits the spot every time. It is the perfect way to spice up your weeknight routine. You get restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it feels fancy but is so easy. It is ready in 35 minutes, which is perfect for busy fall nights. Your family will love the bold flavors and tender shrimp. The sauce is rich and coats every single noodle perfectly. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. You can easily adjust the heat to please everyone.
Simple Method
Making this dish is a breeze for any home cook. You start by boiling your favorite pasta until it is just right. Then, you sear the seasoned shrimp until they turn a beautiful pink. The sauce comes together in the same pan to save on cleanup. Even if you are new to cooking seafood, you can do this with confidence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples you might already have in your kitchen.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm with a side of crusty garlic bread. A fresh green salad helps balance the rich, creamy sauce. For a special date night, light a candle and pour a cold drink. You can even add a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra brightness. It makes a stunning presentation that looks like you spent hours cooking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to two days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid using the microwave if you can to keep the shrimp tender. Reheat gently to maintain that perfect texture.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the step of seasoning the shrimp before cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp or they will become rubbery.
- Use a low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness easily.
- Prep all your vegetables before you start the skillet.
- For a cozy fall meal, serve this in warmed bowls.
- Upgrade the dish by adding a handful of fresh spinach at the end.
- Stir the cheese in slowly to ensure a smooth texture.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the shrimp for sliced chicken breast for a different protein.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish allergy-friendly.
- Add sliced andouille sausage for an extra smoky flavor.
- Stir in roasted corn during the summer for a sweet crunch.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry first. This ensures they sear properly in the pan.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning brand. You can start with half the amount if you are sensitive to heat. Adding more cream also helps mellow the spice.
What pasta shape works best?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne or bow ties work great too. Any shape with ridges will hold onto the creamy sauce well. Choose what your family loves most.
I hope this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta brings some warmth to your dinner table. It is such a satisfying meal to share with the people you love. Happy cooking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
