Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta – A Bold and Comforting Southern-Inspired Dish

Looking for a dish that’s rich, creamy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress? This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect fusion of bold Cajun spice and comforting creaminess. With tender shrimp, gluten-free spaghetti, and a luscious cheesy tomato-cream sauce, it hits all the right notes—spicy, savory, and indulgent. This pasta dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or whenever you crave something a little decadent.

The heart of this dish lies in the seasoning. Cajun spice, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano come together to coat the shrimp in layers of flavor. Then there’s the sauce—made from tomato sauce, heavy cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic olive oil, and butter—that clings to every strand of pasta and bite of shrimp. The result is a dish that’s restaurant-worthy but surprisingly easy to make at home.

What sets this version apart is its gluten-free twist, making it accessible without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re following a gluten-free lifestyle or simply love creamy seafood pastas, this recipe will satisfy every craving with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Packed with Bold Cajun Flavor

A balanced mix of herbs and spices brings warmth and depth without overpowering the delicate shrimp.

2. Creamy and Cheesy Sauce

The combination of heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates an ultra-luxurious sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying.

3. Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Shrimp are seasoned and sautéed until just right—tender, juicy, and bursting with spice.

4. Naturally Gluten-Free

Using gluten-free spaghetti ensures this dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivity while keeping the classic pasta feel.

5. Impressive Yet Easy

Despite its restaurant-quality appeal, this recipe comes together quickly and is easy enough for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp & Pasta:

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Gluten-free spaghetti
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Cajun seasoning
• Parsley
• Sweet smoked paprika (OliveNation)
• Garlic powder (OliveNation)
• Salt
• Dry shallots

For the Sauce:

• Parmesan cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Tomato sauce
• Heavy cream
• Garlic olive oil (Costabile)
• Butter

Variations

• Use Chicken or Tofu: Swap shrimp with sliced chicken breast or firm tofu for a different protein option.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Different Pasta Types: Use regular pasta or whole wheat spaghetti if gluten-free isn’t necessary.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter, less rich option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp with oregano, thyme, Cajun seasoning, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and dry shallots. Toss until shrimp are well coated.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook gluten-free spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of garlic olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter with the remaining garlic olive oil. Add tomato sauce and stir. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and fully incorporated. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked spaghetti and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Plate immediately and garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; once they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to added starches—fresh is best.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It helps thin the sauce and allows it to cling better to the pasta.
• Balance the Spices: Start with less Cajun seasoning if you’re sensitive to spice, then adjust to taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta will absorb more sauce without becoming mushy.

How to Serve

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is best served hot, straight from the pan. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a refreshing drink pairing, try a cold glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or sparkling water with lemon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing

Cream-based sauces can separate after freezing, so freezing is not ideal. If you must, freeze without the shrimp and add fresh shrimp when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Add a bit of reserved pasta water, cream, or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?

Yes! Any type of spaghetti or pasta will work—just cook it al dente.

2. Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild kick. You can increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream can be used for a lighter version.

4. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.

5. What if I don’t have garlic olive oil?

You can use regular olive oil and add an extra pinch of garlic powder or minced fresh garlic.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead. Cook pasta and combine just before serving.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, and cherry tomatoes make great additions.

8. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer, or add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan to help it thicken.

9. Can I omit the cheese?

You can, but it will affect the creaminess and flavor. Consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.

10. What kind of Cajun seasoning should I use?

Any store-bought Cajun blend will work, or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate fusion of comfort food and bold Southern flair. With tender shrimp, gluten-free spaghetti, and a silky, spiced sauce, this dish brings warmth and indulgence to any table. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite—rich, satisfying, and irresistibly flavorful. Enjoy it fresh, and don’t forget the extra Parmesan on top!

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