Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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I love this pasta dish because it brings together everything I enjoy—creamy comfort food with a little spicy kick. This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is bold, rich, and super satisfying. It’s something I can make quickly on a weeknight, but it still feels like a special treat.

I love how the Cajun spices mix with the cream and cheese, and the shrimp add a lovely, juicy bite. With every forkful, you get creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and spicy shrimp—all the textures and flavors I crave in one bowl. It’s also a great dish to share with friends or serve at small gatherings because everyone always loves the combination.

Adding just the right amount of Cajun seasoning gives it heat and depth, and the result bursts with flavor! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect creamy seafood dinner, this recipe is always a winner. There are many ways to serve it, too—you can pair it with crusty garlic bread, a green salad, or even roasted vegetables.

More pasta recipes you can make:

What is Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a delicious dinner dish made with pasta, shrimp, and a flavorful Cajun-seasoned cream sauce. The shrimp are cooked until tender and juicy, then tossed with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and a spicy cream sauce. The Cajun seasoning brings smoky, peppery heat while the cream balances it out with smooth richness. It’s a great blend of bold spices and creamy comfort in one easy-to-make meal.

Perfect for

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It takes under 30 minutes and tastes amazing.

Perfect for date night at home. It looks and feels fancy, but is easy to make.

Perfect for seafood lovers. The shrimp are the star and are full of flavor.

Perfect for when you want something comforting. The creamy sauce makes every bite feel cozy.

Perfect for meal prep. It reheats well and makes lunch exciting.

Perfect for small gatherings. Serve in a big bowl and let everyone dig in.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs or a spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cheese grater (for Parmesan)
  • Mixing bowl (if marinating shrimp beforehand)

How to make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Step 1:

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2:

Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 4:

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5:

Return shrimp to the pan, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir well to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 6:

Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

  • Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy eating.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook fast and become rubbery if left too long.
  • Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  • Use a mix of Cajun spices or a store-bought blend—adjust the heat to your liking.
  • Add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it gets too thick.
  • Stir in Parmesan slowly to avoid clumps and get a smooth, creamy sauce.
  • Taste as you go! Cajun seasoning can be strong, so balance it with salt and cream.

Optional Ingredients

  • Sun-dried tomatoes – Add rich, tangy bites to contrast the creamy sauce.
  • Spinach – Stir in fresh spinach for color and a boost of greens.
  • Mushrooms – Sauté with the onions for extra umami.
  • Lemon zest – A little citrus brightens up the creamy flavor.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes – For more heat if you like it spicy.
  • Bacon bits – Add crunch and smoky flavor on top.

What to Serve with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

To make this meal complete, start with a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette. It balances the creaminess of the pasta.

Garlic bread or baguette slices are perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.

Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus make a fresh, healthy side.

If you want something extra filling, serve with rice or quinoa to stretch the meal for more people.

You can also pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon to refresh the palate. Add a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans for a colorful plate. For a southern twist, try serving it with cornbread or Cajun-style roasted potatoes. A fruit salad or light dessert like sorbet can finish the meal on a refreshing note.

Is Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Healthy?

This dish is rich and hearty, but it can still be part of a healthy meal if portioned well. It offers protein from shrimp, and you can add veggies to boost the nutrition. Use light cream or half-and-half for a lighter version. Like all creamy pasta dishes, moderation is key. If you’re watching your sodium or fat intake, consider reducing the amount of seasoning or using grilled shrimp instead of sautéing in oil.

Variations and Substitutions

Use chicken instead of shrimp – Cooked chicken breast or thighs work well with Cajun seasoning and creamy sauce. It’s perfect if someone in your home doesn’t like seafood.

Try linguine or penne pasta – you can switch to the pasta type you have at home. Penne gives more bite, while linguine makes it feel elegant.

Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk or dairy-free cream and leave out the cheese. The result is still creamy and flavorful.

Add sausage – Andouille or smoked sausage gives it a Louisiana-style twist. Slice thin and sauté until browned before adding.

Use Greek yogurt – Mix it with cream for a tangy, lighter version. It adds extra protein and a little zing.

Make it vegetarian – Skip the shrimp and add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. It’s hearty without the meat.

Add white wine – A splash in the sauce adds flavor and helps blend everything. Let it cook down before adding the cream.

Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta and check your Cajun spice mix. Many blends can have hidden additives, so read the label.

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. For best texture, reheat on low heat while stirring.

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, but you can store the cooked shrimp and pasta separately and combine fresh when ready. You can also prep the sauce ahead of time and cook the shrimp and pasta fresh when serving.

FAQ

What kind of shrimp should I use for Cajun pasta?

Use medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen both work, but if using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can always add more spice later if needed, but starting light helps control the heat.

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne all work great. Choose one that holds sauce well—short or long noodles both soak up the creamy Cajun flavors perfectly.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but be careful not to overcook them. Add them at the end just to warm through, since they’re already fully cooked and can get rubbery if reheated too long.

How long does this dish take to make?

From prep to plate, it usually takes around 30 minutes. You can save more time by prepping the shrimp and chopping veggies in advance.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Total time

30

minutes

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a rich and spicy dish made with tender shrimp, bold Cajun seasoning, and a smooth, cheesy cream sauce.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta

  • 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

  • Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  • Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  • Return shrimp to the pan, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir well to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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