Cajun Shrimp Pasta

I love this Cajun Shrimp Pasta because it’s bursting with bold, spicy flavors and creamy sauce that clings perfectly to tender pasta and succulent shrimp. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that brings a little bit of Southern flair to my dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how the smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning pairs with the richness of the creamy sauce and the sweetness of shrimp. The dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal when I want a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours cooking.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Pasta (I like fettuccine or linguine)

• Olive oil or butter

• Cajun seasoning

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Onion, diced

• Bell pepper, diced (optional)

• Heavy cream or half-and-half

• Chicken broth

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I season the shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning.

2. I cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat and sauté the seasoned shrimp until pink and cooked through. I remove them from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, I add more oil or butter if needed and sauté diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.

5. I pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

6. I stir in heavy cream and let the sauce gently simmer until it thickens slightly.

7. I add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

8. I return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce.

9. I add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

10. I season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy boost: I add crushed red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning to the sauce.

• Vegetable add-ins: I toss in mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.

• Cream alternative: I use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.

• Protein swap: I substitute shrimp with chicken breast or sausage for a different take.

• Gluten-free: I use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. I also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—I thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

How spicy is this dish?

I control the spice by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning and optional red pepper flakes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prefer to cook fresh, but I can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready.

What type of pasta works best?

I like fettuccine or linguine because the sauce clings well, but any pasta shape works.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I don’t recommend freezing due to the creamy sauce—it can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is one of my favorite quick meals when I crave something spicy and creamy. It’s packed with bold flavors, easy to prepare, and perfect for a satisfying dinner any night of the week.