Go Back
–+ servings
Melany

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a must-try for dinner!

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.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb penne pasta or pasta of choiceSalt for pasta water1 lb shrimp fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined1 tablespoon olive oil2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided3 tablespoons unsalted butter3 cloves garlic, minced14 oz can diced tomatoes or crushed1½ cups heavy whipping cream½ cup grated Parmesan cheeseGrated Parmesan cheese, for garnish2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish

Method
 

  1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cold water or refrigerate until fully defrosted. Pat dry and toss with half of the Cajun seasoning.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7.  
  8. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

  • You can customize the spice level by adjusting the Cajun seasoning or adding crushed red pepper flakes.
  • This recipe works with any pasta shape—try fettuccine, linguine, or even rigatoni.
  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch—just make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry.
  • Great as leftovers! Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!