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Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

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Spicy Cajun shrimp pasta is a bold and creamy dish loaded with tender shrimp, zesty Cajun seasoning, and a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or an impressive date night meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2–3 tsp Cajun seasoning (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  4. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, reduce heat, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes to control heat level.
  • Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use coconut cream for dairy-free.
  • Add spinach, mushrooms, or andouille sausage for variation.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of cream or water.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook shrimp in batches if doubling the recipe.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/spicy-cajun-shrimp-pasta/