Go Back

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta features succulent shrimp coated in smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning, tossed with al dente pasta in a creamy, flavorful sauce. The dish combines bold spices, tender seafood, and a silky sauce to create a vibrant, comforting meal with a touch of heat and smoky depth. Its final appearance is a rich, fiery-coated pasta garnished with fresh herbs, ready to serve hot.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lb shrimp medium-sized, peeled and deveined
  • 12 oz pasta penne or fettuccine
  • 3 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality, fruity
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning smoky, spicy, with garlic and paprika
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed, added at the end
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional parsley or green onions chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss them with a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a slight char. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and nutty, making sure it doesn’t burn.
  5. Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning and stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices, releasing a smoky, peppery aroma.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the spices. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and turns silky.
  7. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing gently to coat the noodles in the spicy, smoky sauce.
  8. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing carefully so they’re evenly distributed among the pasta.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, then toss everything together once more to brighten the flavors.
  10. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, try a splash of smoked olive oil or a pinch of smoked paprika. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your heat preference. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.