Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta features succulent shrimp tossed in a spicy Cajun sauce, combined with al dente pasta and a rich, creamy base. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (25g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Season the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper or using a milder Cajun seasoning.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 200mg