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Lightened Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun-inspired, American

Description

 This Lightened Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a lighter and healthier take on a classic dish! Tender shrimp, spaghetti, and a medley of flavors are tossed in a creamy Cajun-inspired sauce with a hint of spice. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 (16 oz) box spaghetti
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, tail off
  • 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning, divided
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (8 oz) bag baby spinach
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.
  2. Season Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. Make Sauce: Add butter and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes and milk.
  5. Thicken Sauce: Whisk together ¼ cup of the milk mixture with flour to create a roux. Add the roux back to the pot and whisk until smooth and thickened.
  6. Add Flavor: Stir in Parmesan cheese and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer over medium heat until thickened, stirring occasionally. Turn off heat.
  7. Combine and Finish: Add shrimp and cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat. Stir in spinach and allow it to wilt.
  8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference.
  • For a richer sauce, you can use a combination of milk and heavy cream.
  • If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute with dried parsley.
  • Serve with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Find it online: https://emilyquickdinners.com/lightened-creamy-cajun-shrimp-pasta-recipe/