This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a spicy and creamy delight that brings the taste of New Orleans to your table! Juicy shrimp, zesty seasonings, and pasta come together in a satisfying bowl.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up after a long day. It’s perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself. Grab a fork, and get ready to dig in! 🍤🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: Classic fettuccine offers a nice texture, but you can swap it for linguine or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta works too if you have dietary restrictions.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this dish. If you’re allergic or vegetarian, you can substitute shrimp with cubed chicken or even a mix of veggies for a delicious spin.
Cajun Seasoning: This is what gives the dish its signature kick! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper as an alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk, like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Fresh Spinach: Frozen spinach can work if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and drain excess moisture. Kale or arugula could also be fun substitutions!
How Do You Perfectly Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is key for this dish. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so pay attention to timing.
- Use medium-high heat to sear shrimp quickly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink—this indicates they’re done.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to ensure they sear properly.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly juicy shrimp to pair with the creamy pasta. Enjoy your delicious meal! 🍤🍝
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or sun-dried tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: crushed red chili flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated with the spices. This will give them a fantastic flavor!
3. Sear the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
5. Add Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and start to blister.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat in the creamy sauce.
8. Add Spinach:
Gently stir in the fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly in the warm sauce.
9. Mix in the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cajun Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. For a bit more heat, feel free to sprinkle crushed red chili flakes on top!
Enjoy this flavorful and creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with perfectly seared shrimp and a delectable sauce!
Can I Substitute Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is delicious, you can use any type of pasta you prefer—linguine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Adjust the spices to match your taste preferences!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the shrimp and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use chickpeas for added protein and make sure to sauté them until they’re cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
