Shrimp Pasta With Creamy Cajun Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Creamy Cajun Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Shrimp Pasta With Creamy Cajun Sauce for its vibrant flavors and comforting creaminess. The blend of Cajun spices elevates the dish, while the shrimp adds a lovely protein boost. Each time I prepare this recipe, the enticing aroma fills my kitchen, making it difficult to resist sampling along the way! Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish never fails to impress. Join me in experiencing the joy of crafting this satisfying meal, perfect for any seafood lover.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:09:35.610Z

When I first attempted this Shrimp Pasta With Creamy Cajun Sauce, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it turned out to be. The secret lies in combining fresh shrimp with a rich and zesty Cajun spice blend. It’s a delightful fusion of heat and cream that comes together beautifully in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

One tip I’ve learned is to sauté the shrimp just until they’re pink and tender, as overcooking can make them tough. Pair this dish with a crisp side salad, and you’ll have a truly satisfying meal that everyone will rave about. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Reasons You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect mix of creamy and spicy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes
Great for impressing guests or cozy dinners

Mastering the Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta to the right texture is critical in achieving the best results. For this Shrimp Pasta, aim for al dente fettuccine, which means it should be firm to the bite. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes of boiling, but always consult the package instructions for specific timing. Remember to generously salt the water, which enhances the pasta's flavor. After draining, do not rinse your pasta; this helps the sauce adhere better.

To prevent your pasta from sticking while you prepare the sauce, toss it with a little olive oil immediately after draining. This step is particularly useful if you're multitasking, allowing you to keep everything warm and ready to combine later. Ensure you keep an eye on the fettuccine so that it doesn’t overcook while you concentrate on the shrimp and sauce.

Enhancing Flavor with Cajun Spice

Cajun seasoning is the star of this dish, delivering a bold kick that complements the shrimp perfectly. If you're a fan of heat, feel free to double the amount used during cooking. However, if you prefer a milder taste, simply reduce it to suit your palate. Additionally, you can experiment with homemade Cajun seasoning by blending smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to tailor the flavors to your preference.

The sautéing process is crucial for developing flavor in the shrimp. Cook them until they turn pink and slightly golden, which takes around 2-3 minutes per side. This ensures you're not only cooking them through but also infusing the oil with the Cajun spices, which will intensify the sauce's flavor when combined later.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the pasta, shrimp, and sauce separately. Cook the pasta al dente, as noted, then cool it quickly under cold running water to stop the cooking process. For the shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the fridge after cooking. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead; just give it a gentle reheating on low heat when ready to serve, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if it thickens.

This dish can be refrigerated for up to three days, but note that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce. When reheating, consider adding a bit more cream or broth to restore the sauce's original consistency. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh parsley to bring back that vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add Cajun seasoning and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine the Ingredients

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of additional Cajun seasoning if desired.

Enjoy this pasta dish with a glass of white wine and your favorite playlist for a complete dining experience.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to your taste preference. Adding a splash of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you're looking for a lighter version of this Shrimp Pasta, consider substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. This change will reduce calories while still keeping the dish creamy. Additionally, if you're avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for Parmesan, providing that cheesy flavor without the lactose.

For those with dietary restrictions regarding shellfish, chicken or plant-based protein such as chickpeas can be fantastic alternatives. Cook the chicken in a similar fashion, or sauté chickpeas until golden for a delightful crunch. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary for these substitutes, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked safely and thoroughly.

Creative Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation and flavor profile, serve the Shrimp Pasta in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and an extra sprinkle of Cajun seasoning on top. Pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread complements the creamy sauce, balancing out the meal. A light citrusy salad with arugula and lemon vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

For a festive twist, consider topping your dish with crispy bacon bits or sautéed bell peppers and onions, adding texture and an extra layer of flavor. The added crunch from freshly toasted breadcrumbs can also be a delightful touch, providing a rustic feel to this comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is great, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer!

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.