Dinner

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving; 2 Tbsp parsley, chopped (optional)

Byanna orden January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

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Introduction

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal that combines tender shrimp with a rich, spicy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it delivers a comforting yet exciting taste in just 30 minutes.

A round white pot filled with creamy orange pasta sauce covers the pasta beneath, with pale yellow penne pasta mixed in. On top, several medium-sized pink and orange grilled shrimp are scattered evenly across the dish. The sauce has a smooth, thick texture and is sprinkled with small bits of green herbs and black pepper. The pot rests on a white marbled surface with part of a green herb and a small white bowl visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 Tbsp parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve some pasta water, then drain the pasta and cover to keep warm.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Optional: garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon total or use a mild paprika instead.
Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies and color.
Use fettuccine or linguine if you prefer a different pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as shrimp can become rubbery.

How to Serve

A white pan filled with creamy orange-colored pasta sauce covers a layer of cooked penne pasta, which are light yellow and smooth. On top, there is a layer of shrimp arranged evenly; the shrimp are golden brown and lightly charred with a shiny, slightly crispy texture. Small bits of chopped green herbs are scattered across the shrimp and sauce, adding contrast to the warm colors. The pan is on a white marbled surface with some green herbs blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely and don’t steam.

What can I serve with creamy Cajun shrimp pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread is also a great accompaniment to soak up the sauce.