Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect answer to busy nights when you still want bold, comforting flavor. Juicy Cajun-spiced shrimp, tender pasta, and a silky cream sauce come together in about 30 minutes for a dinner that feels restaurant-worthy without the stress. It’s rich, a little spicy, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne work best)
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp butter, divided
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Juice of ½ lemon
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in well-salted water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain. -
Season the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and toss with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. -
Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly browned. Remove and set aside. -
Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add onion and bell pepper; cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. -
Make the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits. Add heavy cream and simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and lemon juice until smooth. -
Combine
Return shrimp to the skillet, add pasta, and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce. -
Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
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Dry shrimp well before cooking for the best sear.
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Adjust the heat by using mild Cajun seasoning or adding extra cayenne if you like it spicy.
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Too thick? Add a splash of pasta water or broth.
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Too thin? Simmer the sauce a few extra minutes to reduce.