Go Back
Cajun cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Louisiana's Acadian settlers. Characterized by its bold spices, fresh seafood, and hearty ingredients, Cajun cooking often transforms simple components into a delightful array of dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Among these culinary gems, Sizzling Cajun Shrimp Pasta stands out as a perfect harmony of spices, succulent seafood, and creamy goodness, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal. Whether you're a fan of spice or simply looking for a dish to impress, this recipe offers the best of both worlds—effortless preparation and an explosion of flavor.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Discover the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine with this Sizzling Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe! Perfectly cooked fettuccine meets succulent shrimp in a creamy sauce, seasoned with bold Cajun spices. This dish melds fresh ingredients and rich flavors, offering a delightful meal ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it’s a culinary journey into the heart of Louisiana. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable dish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, finely diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup fresh spinach leaves

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, remembering to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water for later use.

    Prepare the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, take your peeled and deveined shrimp and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over them. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated in the seasoning.

      Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

        Add Vegetables: Introduce the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and release their juices.

          Cook the Shrimp: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet, making enough space to add the seasoned shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they become pink and opaque.

            Make It Creamy: Once the shrimp are cooked through, pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir the mixture to ensure everything is well combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low to maintain warmth.

              Combine Everything: Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet, tossing gently to combine all the ingredients. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water, adding a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency. Finally, fold in the fresh spinach leaves until they are just wilted. Season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking.

                Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the pasta with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the dish is hot for the best flavor.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in deep bowls, ensuring each serving has a colorful mix of shrimp and vegetables. Top each bowl with additional Parmesan and a light drizzle of olive oil for added richness.