Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a fun, flavorful dish that mixes spicy shrimp with creamy pasta. It’s the perfect mix of heat and comfort. Yum!
Making this pasta is a great way to impress your friends at dinner! I love how quickly it comes together—just toss everything in the pot for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This dish shines with fettuccine, but you can use other pasta types like penne or linguine if you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free options are also great for those with dietary needs.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe, but feel free to swap in scallops or even chicken if shrimp isn’t available. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend adds the signature kick to the pasta. If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, switch to half-and-half or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the creaminess might vary. If you need dairy-free, opt for a plant-based cream.
Vegetables: Bell peppers add color and crunch. Feel free to mix in zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies, or use what you have in the fridge!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated will work in a pinch. Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free alternative for those avoiding cheese.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky if you’re not careful. The goal is to have them juicy, not rubbery. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat the olive oil and butter on medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the shrimp.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Be careful not to overcook, or they’ll get tough. Remove from heat as soon as they’re done!
Cooking shrimp quickly in a hot skillet keeps them tender and full of flavor. This technique makes a big difference in your pasta dish!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
For the Sauce and Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For the Finishing Touch:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Cooking this delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking. This is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking your fettuccine according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning. Make sure each shrimp is coated evenly with the spice for the most flavor in each bite!
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. When they’re done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This will add great color and crunch to the dish.
5. Adding the Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant.
6. Making the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes so it begins to thicken. This creamy sauce will be the heart of your dish!
7. Combining Everything:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and mixed in. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Your Cajun Shrimp Pasta is ready to impress! Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight, or thaw them quickly by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use other pasta types such as penne, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking times according to the type you choose!
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or including diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. Adjust it based on your spice preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent it from drying out.