Description
Turn up the heat with this bold and creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta! Juicy shrimp are pan-seared with Cajun spices, then tossed with tender pasta and a rich, garlicky tomato cream sauce. It’s spicy, savory, and ready to impress—perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta or pasta of choice
Salt for pasta water
1 lb shrimp, fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
14 oz can diced tomatoes or crushed
1½ cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cold water or refrigerate until fully defrosted. Pat dry and toss with half of the Cajun seasoning.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes. Lower the heat, pour in heavy cream, and stir. Add the Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce thickens.
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Add the cooked pasta and reserved shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy Cajun sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
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You can customize the spice level by adjusting the Cajun seasoning or adding crushed red pepper flakes.
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This recipe works with any pasta shape—try fettuccine, linguine, or even rigatoni.
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Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch—just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry.
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Great as leftovers! Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American