When it comes to comforting, yet exciting weeknight meals, Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a dish that effortlessly combines the bold flavors of the South with the creaminess of a classic pasta dish. This vibrant recipe, created by Ingrid Beer, is an indulgent balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy elements, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for something satisfying and quick to make at home, this dish promises to deliver on both taste and texture. It’s everything you want in a pasta dish: savory shrimp, a luscious roasted red pepper cream sauce, and just the right amount of spice to awaken your taste buds.
PrintCajun Shrimp Pasta: A Flavorful, Zesty Delight
Get ready for a Cajun Shrimp Pasta experience you won’t forget! 🦐🍝 Infused with bold Cajun spices and a creamy sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of heat, flavor, and richness. 🌶️✨ Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this pasta will impress! It’s quick, simple, and packed with zesty goodness that everyone will love. 😋
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- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces uncooked fettuccine: Fettuccine is an ideal choice for this dish due to its wide, flat shape, which allows it to soak up the sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne.
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound medium peeled and deveined shrimp (16/20 count): Medium shrimp work well here, providing a tender bite without overwhelming the dish. Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time and avoid the hassle of cleaning them yourself.
- Avocado oil or olive oil: Both avocado oil and olive oil are great for searing shrimp, as they have a high smoke point and will help achieve a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt-free Cajun Creole seasoning: This seasoning blend is the backbone of the dish, offering a smoky, spicy kick without being overwhelming. If you prefer a stronger heat profile, feel free to adjust the seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic: Granulated garlic provides a savory depth of flavor that complements the spices in the Cajun seasoning.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): If you like your pasta with more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of spiciness. Adjust this based on your tolerance for heat.
For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy base to the sauce, helping to soften the onions and roasted red peppers while contributing to the overall richness of the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: The onion is sautéed with the roasted red peppers, providing a sweet and savory undertone to the sauce.
- ½ cup (about 4 ounces by weight) finely diced roasted red peppers from a jar: Roasted red peppers add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the sauce, providing a perfect balance to the Cajun spices.
- 6 cloves garlic, pressed through a garlic press: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch to the sauce, deepening the overall flavor profile.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): If you’re a fan of extra spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the heat level and add another layer of complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste enriches the sauce with its concentrated tomato flavor, creating a more robust and savory base for the cream.
- 1 (14.5 ounce / 411 gram) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes lend a smoky depth of flavor, which pairs perfectly with the Cajun seasoning and roasted red peppers.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and helps create the perfect consistency for the sauce. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- ½ cup heavy cream: The heavy cream is the key to achieving that silky, creamy texture that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly. It balances the heat and spices, creating a harmonious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild herbaceous note to finish the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
The first step in any recipe is to have everything ready to go. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster. Begin by gathering all the ingredients listed above. Dice the onion, chop the roasted red peppers, press the garlic, and measure out your seasonings. Once your ingredients are prepped and organized, you’re ready to begin.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10 minutes for al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, keeping it warm. You can toss it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of oil over the shrimp, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, granulated garlic, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if desired). Toss the shrimp to coat evenly in the seasoning. The seasoning should cling to the shrimp, infusing it with flavor before you sear it in the skillet.
Step 4: Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes on one side until golden-brown and slightly crispy. Flip the shrimp and cook for another minute or two until they are cooked through and slightly golden on both sides. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter along with about 2 tablespoons of oil. Let the butter melt, then add the diced onion and roasted red peppers. Sauté the mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the onion softens and turns golden. Add the pressed garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for another 30 seconds. Add the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine everything and let the sauce simmer gently for a couple of minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, along with half of the shrimp and some chopped parsley. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another minute to warm the pasta through.
Step 7: Serve
If you’re serving the pasta directly from the skillet, top it with the remaining shrimp and sprinkle over the rest of the chopped parsley. Alternatively, you can transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top it with the shrimp and parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. Conversely, for a spicier version, add more cayenne or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Use a Different Pasta: While fettuccine is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as linguine, penne, or spaghetti. Choose a shape that holds the sauce well, and you can’t go wrong.
- Add Veggies: For a more veggie-forward dish, consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them with the onions and roasted red peppers for a healthy boost.
- Substitute the Cream: For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
In this article, we’ll dive into the full recipe for Cajun Shrimp Pasta, explore its ingredients, and provide step-by-step instructions to help you recreate this flavorful meal in your own kitchen. With vivid descriptions of the flavors, textures, and aromas, this guide will make you feel as though you’re right there in the kitchen, preparing this dish with your own two hands. We’ll also offer helpful tips for ingredient substitutions, variations, and serving suggestions to make this meal your own. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a Winner
At the heart of Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of flavors and textures: the tender shrimp, the smoky and spicy seasoning, the richness of the cream, and the slight tang of roasted red peppers. Together, they create an unforgettable experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire:
- Complex Flavor Profile: The combination of Cajun seasoning, roasted red peppers, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a smoky, spicy base that infuses the shrimp and pasta with layers of flavor. The addition of heavy cream and chicken broth provides a rich, silky finish to the sauce, balancing the heat from the Cajun seasoning with a creamy texture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner at home or impressing guests at a dinner party, Cajun Shrimp Pasta is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal, yet sophisticated enough to serve as a centerpiece for a special gathering.
- Quick and Easy: The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: This dish allows for many personalizations, from adjusting the level of spiciness to experimenting with different types of pasta or adding extra vegetables. Whether you like things extra spicy or a bit milder, you can customize the heat level to suit your taste.
Ingredient Breakdown for Cajun Shrimp Pasta
To achieve the perfect Cajun Shrimp Pasta, each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing the dish’s distinctive flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces uncooked fettuccine: Fettuccine is an ideal choice for this dish due to its wide, flat shape, which allows it to soak up the sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne.
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound medium peeled and deveined shrimp (16/20 count): Medium shrimp work well here, providing a tender bite without overwhelming the dish. Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time and avoid the hassle of cleaning them yourself.
- Avocado oil or olive oil: Both avocado oil and olive oil are great for searing shrimp, as they have a high smoke point and will help achieve a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt-free Cajun Creole seasoning: This seasoning blend is the backbone of the dish, offering a smoky, spicy kick without being overwhelming. If you prefer a stronger heat profile, feel free to adjust the seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic: Granulated garlic provides a savory depth of flavor that complements the spices in the Cajun seasoning.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): If you like your pasta with more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of spiciness. Adjust this based on your tolerance for heat.
For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy base to the sauce, helping to soften the onions and roasted red peppers while contributing to the overall richness of the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: The onion is sautéed with the roasted red peppers, providing a sweet and savory undertone to the sauce.
- ½ cup (about 4 ounces by weight) finely diced roasted red peppers from a jar: Roasted red peppers add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the sauce, providing a perfect balance to the Cajun spices.
- 6 cloves garlic, pressed through a garlic press: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch to the sauce, deepening the overall flavor profile.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): If you’re a fan of extra spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the heat level and add another layer of complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste enriches the sauce with its concentrated tomato flavor, creating a more robust and savory base for the cream.
- 1 (14.5 ounce / 411 gram) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes lend a smoky depth of flavor, which pairs perfectly with the Cajun seasoning and roasted red peppers.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and helps create the perfect consistency for the sauce. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- ½ cup heavy cream: The heavy cream is the key to achieving that silky, creamy texture that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly. It balances the heat and spices, creating a harmonious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild herbaceous note to finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Now that you know the ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Cajun Shrimp Pasta. Follow along for a foolproof method to bring this flavorful dish to life.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
The first step in any recipe is to have everything ready to go. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster. Begin by gathering all the ingredients listed above. Dice the onion, chop the roasted red peppers, press the garlic, and measure out your seasonings. Once your ingredients are prepped and organized, you’re ready to begin.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10 minutes for al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, keeping it warm. You can toss it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of oil over the shrimp, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, granulated garlic, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if desired). Toss the shrimp to coat evenly in the seasoning. The seasoning should cling to the shrimp, infusing it with flavor before you sear it in the skillet.
Step 4: Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes on one side until golden-brown and slightly crispy. Flip the shrimp and cook for another minute or two until they are cooked through and slightly golden on both sides. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter along with about 2 tablespoons of oil. Let the butter melt, then add the diced onion and roasted red peppers. Sauté the mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the onion softens and turns golden. Add the pressed garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for another 30 seconds. Add the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine everything and let the sauce simmer gently for a couple of minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, along with half of the shrimp and some chopped parsley. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another minute to warm the pasta through.
Step 7: Serve
If you’re serving the pasta directly from the skillet, top it with the remaining shrimp and sprinkle over the rest of the chopped parsley. Alternatively, you can transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top it with the shrimp and parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Tips and Variations
While this Cajun Shrimp Pasta is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish based on your preferences:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. Conversely, for a spicier version, add more cayenne or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Use a Different Pasta: While fettuccine is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as linguine, penne, or spaghetti. Choose a shape that holds the sauce well, and you can’t go wrong.
- Add Veggies: For a more veggie-forward dish, consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them with the onions and roasted red peppers for a healthy boost.
- Substitute the Cream: For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a few simple sides to make it even more satisfying:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy loaf of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta and provide some crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the pasta alongside some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for an extra dose of flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances heat, creaminess, and rich flavors. With its smoky, spicy sauce, tender shrimp, and creamy texture, it’s a dish that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So give it a try, and let the bold flavors of the South take center stage in your next meal. Happy cooking!