Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick and easy dish that’s packed with flavor. Tender shrimp and pasta are coated in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided (or added to taste depending on brand used)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Keep some of the pasta water for the sauce, then drain the pasta and cover to keep warm.
- Cook Shrimp: Coat the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning. In a deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and sauté for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is no longer translucent. Remove from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter with the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and sauté for about 2-3 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, the remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer, then reduce to medium/low heat and continue for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Add the shrimp and pasta back into the skillet and stir until the noodles are coated in sauce and everything is heated through. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce. To serve, garnish with more parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Cajun Seasoning: Different brands of Cajun seasoning have varying amounts of salt and spiciness. If your seasoning is saltier, start with half of the seasoning and add more to taste.
- Pasta: Substitute the penne for any other pasta such as rigatoni, ziti, mostaccioli, or elbow pasta.
- Vegetables: You can add your favorite vegetables to the shrimp pasta, such as onion, bell peppers, asparagus, green beans, or even sautéed mushrooms.
- Make Ahead: You can cook the shrimp and pasta ahead of time and assemble the dish later. Simply reheat the shrimp and pasta in the sauce before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
