Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-level flavor right to your kitchen. Tender shrimp are coated in Cajun seasoning, seared to perfection, and tossed in a luscious, spicy cream sauce with pasta. It’s rich, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy—perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has it all: heat, creaminess, and big flavor in every bite. The Cajun spices give the shrimp a smoky kick, which pairs beautifully with the silky Alfredo-style sauce. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an easy yet impressive dinner. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta or protein.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic
• Onion
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Cream cheese (optional for added richness)
• Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika (optional for extra color)
• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
5. Reduce heat and add heavy cream, cream cheese (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss in the cooked pasta. Stir until everything is well coated.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms add texture and color.
• Use chicken: Swap the shrimp for Cajun chicken if preferred.
• Lighten it up: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce for more heat.
• Change the pasta: Works well with penne, bow tie, or spaghetti.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

It can be! Most blends are mildly spicy, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

What pasta works best with this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are all excellent choices.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, cook the shrimp fresh and reheat the pasta and sauce gently.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque—usually about 1–2 minutes per side.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free cream alternatives and skip the cheese, though the texture may vary.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer to reduce, or add extra Parmesan or a bit of cream cheese.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine added before the cream gives extra depth of flavor.

Do I need to peel the shrimp?

Yes, peeled and deveined shrimp are ideal for easy eating and even cooking.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, just use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount of spice to keep it kid-friendly.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines bold seasoning with rich, creamy comfort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to serve guests, this pasta hits all the right notes. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy every spicy, creamy bite—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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