Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Tasty Creations

I absolutely love making Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for dinner because it combines my favorite flavors in a quick and satisfying dish. The spicy kick of Cajun seasoning marries perfectly with succulent shrimp and silky pasta, creating a meal that’s bursting with flavor. It’s not only indulgent but also relatively easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. With a few simple ingredients and just under 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging my family. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-24T19:14:18.386Z

When I first attempted making this dish, I was surprised at how the creamy sauce and spicy Cajun seasoning created such a vibrant flavor profile. I played around with the spice levels and discovered that balancing the heat with a touch of cream makes all the difference. It keeps the dish rich without overwhelming the taste buds!

One key tip I learned is to sauté the shrimp until they are just opaque before adding them to the sauce. This keeps them juicy and tender, ensuring every bite is flavorful. It’s a dish I never tire of, and it's always a hit with my family!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce infused with zesty Cajun spices
Perfectly cooked shrimp that are tender and flavorful
Quick, one-pan recipe ideal for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Pasta

The type of pasta you choose can significantly affect the overall texture and enjoyment of your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. Fettuccine and linguine are great choices due to their wide, flat shape, which allows the creamy sauce to cling better. Cooking the pasta al dente, as directed on the package, ensures it maintains a slight bite even after combining with the sauce. This texture contrast adds a delightful element to the dish, balancing the silky sauce and tender shrimp.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider using penne or farfalle. Their diverse shapes provide excellent sauce adhesion, and their bite-sized pieces can make for a fun eating experience. Always remember to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose, and don’t forget to reserve that crucial half cup of pasta water for perfecting your sauce!

Perfecting the Sauce

The creamy sauce in this recipe is the heart of the dish, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to let it brown; a subtle golden color indicates it’s ready for the chicken broth. The garlic should be aromatic but not burnt, which could lend a bitter flavor to your sauce. As you pour in the cream, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. This helps emulsify the ingredients and develops a rich, cohesive sauce.

For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after the garlic, which can complement the Cajun spices beautifully. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat yogurt or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. Just keep an eye on the heat, as dairy alternatives can separate at high temperatures.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it reduce for about 2 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your deliciously creamy pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce while cooking. Alternatively, try using crayfish for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream before warming it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. This helps revive the sauce, ensuring it stays luscious and not dried out.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Freeze it in a suitable container, making sure to eat it within 1-2 months for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of extra cream to help restore its original consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For an appealing presentation, serve your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta in shallow bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra grating of Parmesan cheese. This not only adds a touch of color but enhances the dish's flavor profile as well. Accompany it with some crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and finish off with a fresh salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.

If you want to ramp up the vegetables in this dish, consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes. Sauté them briefly after the shrimp and before the garlic to integrate their flavors into the sauce. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to your plate, making it even more appealing to guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to properly thaw and dry the shrimp before seasoning and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter dish.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning used; feel free to adjust the amount according to your preference.