Description
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a bold, spicy, and luxurious pasta dish made in one skillet and ready in 30 minutes or less. Perfect for weeknight comfort or date-night flair, this creamy pasta balances smoky Cajun heat with rich Alfredo-style sauce, juicy shrimp, and Parmesan. It’s easy, indulgent, and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2–3 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
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3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside. -
Season and Cook the Shrimp
Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside. -
Sauté Garlic and Onion
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. -
Make the Sauce
Add chicken or seafood broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese gradually until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. -
Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce. -
Finish and Serve
Stir in lemon juice if using. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
Use fresh, large shrimp for best flavor and texture.
For extra spice, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Slowly add cheese to avoid clumping.
A splash of white wine before adding cream enhances flavor.
To lighten the dish, use half-and-half or reduced-fat cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun / American
Keywords: cajun shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, seafood alfredo, spicy pasta