Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Sauce
Spice up your dinner routine with this Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Sauce a bold, flavorful dish that’s rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make! Juicy shrimp are coated in smoky Cajun seasoning and tossed with tender pasta in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of heat.
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ tablespoon unsalted butter
- For the Pasta u0026 Sauce
- 8 oz (225 g) linguine or fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth (or seafood stock for extra flavor)
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Salt u0026 pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Season u0026 Cook the Shrimp : Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel.Toss shrimp with 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and ½ tablespoon butter.Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce : In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter.Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.Add Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and paprika, stirring until smooth.Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Combine Pasta u0026 Shrimp : Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
- Step 5: Serve : Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.Serve immediately while hot and creamy.