This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that brings a little kick to your dinner table! It’s made with juicy shrimp, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of spice.
I can’t help but love how quick and easy it is to whip this up. A little bit of cajun seasoning goes a long way, and it always impresses my friends. Trust me, they always ask for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend linguine or fettuccine for this dish because they hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can also use whole wheat, gluten-free pasta, or any other pasta shape you have on hand.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal, but you can use medium shrimp or even seasoned fish if shrimp isn’t available. Just make sure they are peeled and deveined for ease.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, try using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and thyme for a similar flavor profile. Adjust the spice level according to your taste!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. The sauce might be slightly less creamy but still delicious.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavor, but you can replace it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with these simple steps, you’ll get it right every time! The goal is to cook shrimp until they’re just pink and opaque.
- Make sure to thaw shrimp if frozen, by placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
- After tossing with Cajun seasoning, heat your skillet to medium-high. Don’t rush this; it helps get a nice sear.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. Look for them to curl up and turn pink – that’s when they’re done.
- Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe can be ready in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. Quick and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente — that means it should still have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside.
2. Seasoning the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning. Make sure they are evenly coated for that zesty flavor!
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add your chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s aromatic — this will add a wonderful flavor!
5. Making the Sauce:
Now, stir in your diced tomatoes and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften up. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines smoothly into the sauce. Then, taste and add salt and black pepper as needed.
7. Combining Everything:
Finally, add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with that creamy sauce.
8. Serving:
Garnish your beautiful dish with chopped fresh parsley on top for some color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful Cajun Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, then drain and pat them dry.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like more heat, you can add extra Cajun seasoning or include some red pepper flakes when cooking the sauce. Just be careful to add it gradually and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce, if necessary.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Definitely! While linguine and fettuccine are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand such as penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just cook it according to package instructions and follow the recipe as directed!
