Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare, not just 30 minutes. The rich, spicy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta while plump shrimp add that special touch that makes dinner feel like an occasion.

I first created this recipe when trying to impress my in-laws during their first visit to our home. When my father-in-law who rarely comments on food asked for the recipe, I knew I had a winner that would become part of our regular rotation.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Select fresh or frozen with shells and tails removed for convenience
• Fettuccine pasta: The flat wide noodles hold the creamy sauce beautifully
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious base for the sauce
• Cajun seasoning: The essential flavor foundation with paprika, garlic, and herbs
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce naturally
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves provide aromatic backbone
• Butter: Creates silky texture and adds richness to the sauce
• Cherry tomatoes: Optional but add bright bursts of acidity to balance the richness
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous tablespoon of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Save a cup of pasta water before draining in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Season the Shrimp:

Place peeled and deveined shrimp in a medium bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until every shrimp is evenly coated. This step ensures flavor in every bite of shrimp.

Cook the Shrimp:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat until hot. Place seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for exactly 2 minutes on the first side until pink and starting to curl. Flip each shrimp and cook just 1 to 2 minutes more until opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook or they will become rubbery. Remove to a plate and set aside.

Create the Sauce Base:

Using the same skillet with all those flavorful bits from the shrimp, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately pour in heavy cream and chicken broth to stop the garlic from burning.

Develop the Flavor:

Add Cajun seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes to the liquid. Whisk to combine and allow to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce begin to reduce and thicken slightly.

Finish the Sauce:

Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Continue stirring until completely melted and the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Add halved cherry tomatoes if using and simmer just until they begin to soften, about one minute.

Combine Components:

Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce in the skillet. Using tongs, gently toss until every strand is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Complete the Dish:

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the pasta and sauce. Allow everything to heat through for about one minute. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired before serving immediately.

My absolute favorite part of this dish is the moment when the Cajun spices hit the butter and cream, creating this incredible aroma that fills the kitchen. It reminds me of our trip to New Orleans where we first fell in love with Cajun cuisine. My husband always appears in the kitchen right at this moment, as if the scent works like a dinner bell.

Perfect Pairings

This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that won't compete with its bold flavors. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For a complete meal, add crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. When serving company, start with a light appetizer like bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms to set the stage without filling guests before the main event.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes many adaptations to suit dietary needs or what you have on hand. For a lighter version, substitute half and half for the heavy cream. No fettuccine? Any pasta shape that captures sauce works well, especially penne, linguine or bowties. Chicken can replace shrimp for those with seafood allergies. Simply dice boneless breasts into bite sized pieces and follow the same cooking method, ensuring they reach 165°F internal temperature.

Make Ahead Options

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline dinner preparation. Season the shrimp and refrigerate up to 8 hours before cooking. The sauce can be made earlier in the day and gently reheated before adding the pasta and shrimp. Leftover pasta will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days but may need a splash of cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture.

Spice Level Control

Cajun cuisine is known for its heat, but this recipe allows you to customize the spice level to your preference. For a milder version suitable for children or sensitive palates, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half and omit the red pepper flakes entirely. Conversely, heat lovers can increase the spice by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste. Remember that the cream helps temper the heat, creating a balanced flavor profile even with additional spice.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase spice, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or extra crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

→ Can I make this dish lighter?

To reduce calories, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use a light cream alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based cream alternative and dairy-free Parmesan substitute.