Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Introduction
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. Juicy shrimp coated with bold Cajun seasoning are tossed in a rich, silky cream sauce with garlic, parmesan, and tomatoes — all wrapped around tender pasta.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Pasta
250g (about 8 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
Water + 1 tsp salt (for boiling)
For the Shrimp
400–500g shrimp (peeled & deveined)
1–1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp paprika (optional for more color)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup heavy cream (or cooking cream)
½ cup milk (optional – to lighten the sauce)
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes or 1 medium tomato (sliced)
1–2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice level)
½ tsp chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
Salt & pepper to taste
1–2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedge (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Boil water in a pot with 1 tsp salt.
Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm but not hard).
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Cooking time: 8–10 minutes.
Season & Cook the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry.
Toss with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper & salt.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan.
Add shrimp and cook on medium-high for:
2 minutes per side or until pink and slightly charred.
Remove shrimp and keep aside.
Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In the same pan, add butter + oil.
Sauté garlic and onions until soft.
Add tomatoes and cook until they soften.
Reduce heat and pour in:
Heavy cream
Milk (optional)
Add:
Parmesan
Cajun seasoning
Salt, pepper, chili flakes
Let it simmer 3–4 minutes until thick and creamy.
If too thick → add a splash of pasta water.
Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta to sauce.
Toss well so the pasta is fully coated.
Add cooked shrimp on top.
Sprinkle fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Garlic bread
A fresh salad
Roasted vegetables
Grated parmesan on top
Tips for Perfect Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Don’t overcook the shrimp — they turn rubbery quickly.
For a lighter version, use half cream + half milk.
For extra flavor, add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
To make it extra spicy, add ½ tsp cayenne pepper.
Use freshly grated parmesan — melts better than packaged.
Variations
Extra Spicy Version
Add more Cajun seasoning + chili flakes.
Chicken Option
Replace shrimp with sliced chicken breast.
Extra Creamy Version
Add 2–3 tbsp cream cheese to the sauce.
Tomato-Based Version
Add ¼ cup tomato paste to the cream.
Benefits
High-protein from shrimp
Rich in antioxidants (garlic, tomatoes)
Comforting yet balanced
Quick and easy dinner
Customizable spice level
Precautions
Avoid eating shrimp if you have a shellfish allergy.
Creamy dishes should be eaten in moderation if you have digestive sensitivity.
Use low-sodium Cajun seasoning if you’re watching salt intake.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that brings together the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and tenderness. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress.
It’s simple, quick, and absolutely irresistible!