If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting, and slightly spicy meal that comes together in no time, this Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice. It combines succulent shrimp seasoned with bold Cajun spices, creamy Parmesan cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or just a quick weeknight meal, this pasta dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The shrimp are seasoned with a robust Cajun spice blend that adds a punch of flavor without being overwhelming. The creamy Parmesan sauce balances the heat and coats every piece of pasta and shrimp perfectly, creating a luscious, satisfying dish.
The best part? It’s all made in just a few simple steps and in less than 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet special. Plus, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste, making it a versatile recipe that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt: To season the pasta water.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: The base of the dish, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, deveined, cleaned, tail removed: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well, just make sure they are peeled and deveined.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Adds a spicy, flavorful kick to the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For sautéing the shrimp and adding richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sear the shrimp and prevent sticking.
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the raw shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasoning and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring the cream to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water as needed to achieve a silky consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Cajun Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet: For cooking the shrimp and making the sauce.
- Medium bowl: For seasoning the shrimp.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
