Introduction
If you love creamy pasta with a spicy kick, this Cajun Shrimp Pasta is about to become your go-to recipe. Juicy jumbo shrimp are tossed in smoky Cajun seasoning, pan-seared to perfection, then coated in a rich, garlicky cream sauce and twirled into buttery fettuccine.
It’s comforting, restaurant-quality food made right at home in just about 30 minutes—the perfect dinner when you want something fast and full of flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is:
- Spicy and creamy in perfect balance
- Packed with juicy shrimp and smoky Cajun flavor
- A one-skillet stunner that’s ready in half an hour
- Customizable—go as mild or fiery as you like
- A total crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and pasta fans alike
It’s the ultimate Cajun comfort food.
Ingredients
Seafood:
- 1½ lb jumbo or large shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤
Produce & Herbs:
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest 🍋
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
Pasta:
- 1 lb fettuccine
Dairy:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream 🥛
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
Pantry:
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (juice of half a lemon)
- 1 tbsp flour
Cajun Spice Blend:
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season and Sear the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with:
- Cajun seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and lightly charred.
Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Whisk in flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly pour in chicken broth and stir until slightly thickened.
Add:
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Lemon juice and zest
- A pinch more Cajun seasoning (if desired)
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes silky.
4️⃣ Combine & Serve
Toss in the cooked fettuccine, coating it fully in the sauce.
Add shrimp back to the skillet and stir to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Tips for Success
💡 Use wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture
💡 Adjust heat level by reducing or increasing cayenne
💡 Add a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for variation
💡 Swap fettuccine for penne or linguine if preferred
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve with:
- Garlic bread or crusty French baguette
- A crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad
- Steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans
Pair with:
- 🍋 Blueberry Lemonade – a citrusy, cooling contrast
- 🌯 Sheet Pan Quesadillas – for a Cajun Tex-Mex twist
- 🍫 Peanut Butter Brownies – rich dessert to follow the spice
- 🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – for that just-sweet-enough finish
- 🍮 No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – creamy and cool after a spicy main
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen
- Not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, but you can prep the shrimp and pasta separately ahead of time
More Recipes You’ll Love
- 🌯 Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- 🍫 Peanut Butter Brownies
- 🍮 No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
- 🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- 🍋 Blueberry Lemonade
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta brings together all the best things in one skillet: tender shrimp, fiery seasoning, silky sauce, and twirl-worthy noodles. It’s bold, comforting, and made to impress—whether you’re feeding your family or spicing up your weeknight dinner routine.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show us your spicy seafood creation! Follow for more one-pan wonders, cozy comfort recipes, and globally inspired dinners that don’t skimp on flavor.
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