creamy cajun shrimp pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package directions in salted water. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
   While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Toss the shrimp to evenly coat them in the spices.
3. Cook the Shrimp
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

   Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes. Add the Parmesan cheese, remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.

5. Combine Shrimp and Pasta
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Once the pasta is well coated, add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together gently to combine.
6. Serve
   Divide the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta between plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. For an extra burst of freshness, you can serve with a wedge of lemon on the side for a squeeze of citrus juice. The lemon balances the richness of the creamy sauce and enhances the flavors of the shrimp.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

• Adjust the Spice Level: The Cajun seasoning gives this dish its signature spice, but you can control the heat level. If you prefer a milder version, use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For those who love a good kick, feel free to add extra spice.
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning: If you want to make your own Cajun seasoning, combine 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. It’s a great way to tailor the seasoning to your taste!
• Use Shrimp with Shells On: If you’re looking for even more flavor, consider using shrimp with their shells still on. Cooking shrimp with the shells on will infuse the dish with more shrimp flavor. You can peel them after cooking if you prefer.
• Pair with a Side Salad: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the pasta. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing works particularly well.
• Make It Lighter: To make this dish a little lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. You’ll still get a creamy sauce, but it will have a lighter texture.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a bit of a punch. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, and the Cajun seasoning gives it that smoky, spicy kick that makes each bite so exciting. The shrimp adds a tender, succulent bite, and when paired with the rich sauce and pasta, it’s a meal that will leave you satisfied and craving more.

This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. It’s fancy enough to serve to guests but easy enough to prepare any day of the week. The combination of creamy and spicy is always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s so versatile you can customize the heat and flavors to suit your taste.

So, if you’re looking for a dish that delivers on both flavor and comfort, give this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta a try. It’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!