Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delectable dish that combines tender shrimp, penne pasta, and a luscious creamy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta offers a delightful blend of bold, spicy, and creamy flavors.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Why This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Is the Best
- Bold Cajun Flavor: The Cajun seasoning provides a bold and slightly spicy flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp and pasta.
- Creamy Sauce: The creamy sauce coats the pasta and shrimp beautifully, adding a rich and indulgent texture.
- Tender Shrimp: The shrimp are cooked until tender and juicy, adding a succulent seafood element to the dish.
- Fresh Vegetables: The addition of green leafy vegetables like spinach or parsley adds color, texture, and a fresh taste that complements the other ingredients.
- Beautiful Presentation: The combination of shrimp, pasta, and green vegetables creates a visually appealing and appetizing meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, hosting a dinner party, or looking for a comforting and flavorful meal, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of bold Cajun seasoning, creamy sauce, and tender shrimp makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredient Notes
- Penne Pasta: The ridged tubes capture the creamy Cajun sauce perfectly.
- Large Shrimp: The star protein, juicy and flavorful, seasoned with Cajun spices.
- Cajun Seasoning: Delivers bold, smoky, and spicy flavors, making the dish stand out.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the creamy sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes: Provide a tangy balance to the richness of the cream.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Forms the luscious base of the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- Olive Oil and Butter: For sautéing and enhancing flavor.
- Parsley: A fresh, herby garnish for contrast (optional).
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp, high-quality pasta, and fresh vegetables.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the Cajun seasoning and spices – they add a lot of flavor to the dish.
- Cook Shrimp Evenly: Ensure the shrimp are cooked evenly to achieve a tender and juicy texture.
- Toss Well: Toss the pasta, shrimp, and sauce together well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With a Side Salad: Add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Include steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing and tangy contrast.
- With Grated Parmesan Cheese: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
A Must Try
Imagine digging into this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta—each bite filled with tender shrimp, al dente penne pasta, and fresh green vegetables, all coated in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce. Whether you’re sharing it with family and friends or enjoying it on your own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients and create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. You’ll love sharing this flavorful dish with loved ones and making special moments even more memorable!
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
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Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta
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Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
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Cilantro Lime Shrimp
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines perfectly cooked penne with succulent shrimp in a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce. Accented with garlic, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is both comforting and flavorful, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese plus more to serve
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoon parsley to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by cooking the penne pasta in a pot of generously salted water until it’s perfectly al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve a cup of the pasta water for the sauce, then drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.
- Season the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn opaque and beautifully golden. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- Using the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the diced tomatoes and sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the heavy cream, the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the shrimp and pasta to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy Cajun sauce until the pasta is fully coated and everything is heated through.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- For the finishing touch, garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Variations to Try:
- Pasta: Switch out the penne for other shapes like rigatoni, ziti, mostaccioli, or even elbow pasta for a fun twist.
- Vegetables: Add a pop of color and flavor with vegetables like onions, bell peppers, asparagus, green beans, or sautéed mushrooms. Customize it to your liking!
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta