Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! If there’s one thing I love, it’s a dish that brings big, bold flavors to the table without a lot of fuss. And when those flavors are inspired by the vibrant cuisine of Louisiana, well, that’s just pure magic. Today, we’re making Cajun Shrimp Pasta – a creamy, spicy, and utterly irresistible dish that comes together faster than you can say “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”

Why I Love This Recipe

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a true gem in my recipe collection. I love it because it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still crave something extraordinary. The combination of succulent shrimp, a rich, spicy cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is just heavenly. It’s a dish that feels indulgent and complex, but it’s surprisingly simple to execute. Plus, it’s wonderfully comforting and always a hit with anyone I serve it to.

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Swaps and Notes

• Shrimp: If you don’t have large shrimp, medium shrimp work too, just reduce cooking time slightly. For a different protein, sliced chicken breast or even sausage (like in my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo) can be used.
• Cajun Seasoning: The spice level of Cajun seasoning varies. Start with a tablespoon and add more to taste if you like extra heat. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also be added for an extra kick.
• Pasta: Any long or short pasta will work. Fettuccine or linguine are great for coating with the creamy sauce.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other finely diced vegetables like red bell pepper, celery, or even mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
• Cream: Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, but heavy cream provides the best richness.
• Cheese: Pecorino Romano could be substituted for Parmesan if you prefer a sharper, saltier cheese.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Prepare Shrimp: Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Cook Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink, opaque, and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Build the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
6. Combine & Finish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together, adding a splash or two of the reserved pasta cooking water if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Tips for Success

• Dry Shrimp for Best Sear: Always pat your shrimp thoroughly dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps them get a nice sear and prevents steaming.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly! Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
• Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water is your secret weapon for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta. Don’t skip it!
• Adjust Seasoning: Cajun seasoning blends can vary in salt and spice. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but here are some delightful ways to serve it:

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will offer a fresh contrast to the rich pasta.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with the shrimp and cream sauce.
• Southern Feast: If you’re building a full Southern-inspired meal, this pasta would go well with elements from my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage or even as a side to a simpler preparation of chicken.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers of Cajun Shrimp Pasta are delicious! Store any cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, the sauce may thicken, so add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat the shrimp, as they can become tough.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of rich, flavorful pasta dishes and easy weeknight meals, you’re in for a treat! Check out some of my other favorites:

• For a truly classic and comforting meal, my Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce is a must-try.
• If you love the bold flavors of the South, you have to try my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo for a comforting experience.
• For another fantastic one-pan dinner that’s always a hit and incredibly convenient, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
• And if you’re looking for ultimate comfort food made fast, don’t miss my Instant Pot Lasagna.

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Final Thoughts

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta brings all the vibrant, spicy, and creamy goodness of Cajun cuisine right to your dinner table, all with the ease of a quick weeknight meal. It’s truly a dish that satisfies every craving and leaves you wanting more. Give it a try, and let those incredible flavors transport you!

What are your favorite ways to incorporate Cajun flavors into your cooking? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more delicious, easy recipes, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.