If you’re looking for a delicious, creamy, and spicy seafood pasta dish, then this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect recipe for you! This dish brings together succulent shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and a rich, creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich & Creamy – The luscious sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese makes every bite irresistibly good.
✅ Perfectly Spiced – The Cajun seasoning adds a bold kick without overpowering the dish.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✅ Restaurant-Quality – Enjoy a gourmet meal at home with simple ingredients.
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season & Cook the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until well coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and onion powder. Stir well.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice for extra flavor.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and mix everything together.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy this restaurant-quality meal at home!
Tips for the Best Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
✔ Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will give the best flavor.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent rubbery texture.
✔ Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning slightly.
✔ Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
✔ Make It Healthier – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter alternative.
What to Serve with Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
This pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Bread – A crispy side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini complement the dish well.
- Side Salad – A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine or linguine works best, you can use penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and shrimp ahead of time, but for the best taste and texture, make the sauce fresh before serving.
4. What other proteins can I use?
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute with chicken, salmon, or scallops.
5. Is this dish very spicy?
Cajun seasoning has a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and seafood goodness. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels fancy enough for a special dinner but simple enough for a quick weeknight meal. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
Do you love spicy and creamy pasta dishes? Try this recipe and impress your family with a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Enjoy your cooking!
