Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines the heat of Cajun spices with a creamy, rich sauce and tender shrimp. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, comforting dinner that’s perfect for family nights or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz penne fusilli, or rigatoni (these pasta shapes catch the sauce best)
- Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- Cajun Seasoning: 1-2 tablespoons adjust based on spice preference
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated
- Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Parsley: for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain, saving 1 cup of the pasta water for the sauce. Set aside.
Season and Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they become pink and opaque.Take the shrimp out of the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Place butter in the skillet and let it melt over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until it's fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly."
Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
- Transfer the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir it into the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Place the shrimp back into the skillet and stir everything together until well combined. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve and Garnish
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.