Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine pasta; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Vitality Meal Guide

I love whipping up this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta on a busy weeknight. It's not only quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, but it also packs a ton of flavor with its rich, spicy sauce. The combination of succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it's a perfect recipe for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-24T17:14:19.157Z

One of my favorite aspects of cooking is experimenting with flavors, and this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a prime example. The key to a rich flavor is the Cajun seasoning, which adds a wonderful kick without overwhelming the dish. During my first attempt, I got the spice balance just right, and I've been perfecting it ever since, ensuring that every bite has the perfect blend of heat and creaminess.

While many pasta dishes are heavy and overly rich, this one stands out due to the lightness of the shrimp combined with a luscious sauce. Turning down the heat slightly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delightful experience. Remember to reserve a bit of the pasta water; it can help adjust your sauce's consistency to achieve that perfect creamy texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and spicy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds
Perfectly cooked shrimp that add a touch of elegance
Simple to make yet impressive for dinner parties or special occasions

Key Techniques for Perfect Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked fettuccine, it's essential to follow the package instructions closely, but also to taste test a minute or so before the suggested time is up. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite but not be crunchy. Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it's boiling to prevent it from sticking together.

Remember to reserve a half cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is a crucial component when mixing your pasta with the sauce. It helps to marry the flavors together and can adjust the sauce's consistency if it turns out too thick.

Understanding Cajun Seasoning

Cajun seasoning is the star of this dish, giving the shrimp a robust flavor that's both spicy and aromatic. If you're using a store-bought blend, check the ingredients for salt levels, as some blends can be quite salty. You can also customize your spice mix by adding more paprika for sweetness or cayenne for heat, depending on your heat tolerance.

If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning used or try using a homemade blend that incorporates your favorite spices. The key is to adjust according to your taste while retaining that characteristic richness and warmth.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your creamy dish shine:

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnishing with chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta!

Your creamy pasta is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp
they should be just pink and firm to the touch. Additionally, you can adjust the level of Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. This method helps to gently warm the pasta and sauce without overcooking the shrimp, which can become rubbery if overheated.

If the pasta seems dry when reheating, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a touch more heavy cream to reincorporate the creamy texture. Always stir gently to prevent the shrimp from breaking apart.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta, providing a fresh balance.

For a complete meal experience, consider serving it with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine enhances the flavors of the Cajun seasoning and complements the creaminess of the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you like can be used, although fettuccine works particularly well.

→ Is there a way to make it healthier?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative, though this may alter the creaminess.

→ Can I refrigerate leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I pair with this dish?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this rich dish beautifully.