Description
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato and parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting meal offers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it an easy yet impressive dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
Sauce
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and cover it to keep warm.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, then add them to the skillet in a single layer. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes to develop flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Add 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Mix Everything Together: Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything well to coat with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve: Garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately for a delicious, creamy Cajun shrimp pasta meal.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and better texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity to your preferred spice level.
- Parmesan cheese adds depth, but feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Keywords: Cajun shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, quick dinner, spicy shrimp pasta, one skillet pasta, easy pasta recipe, Cajun seasoning pasta
