Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics

When I first tried making creamy Cajun shrimp pasta at home, I was amazed by how quickly and easily it came together. The combination of succulent shrimp and a rich, spicy cream sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that brings comfort and excitement to the table. I love how the Cajun spices elevate the flavor profile, making every bite a delightful experience. It has become one of my go-to meals for impressing guests or treating myself to something special on busy weekdays.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:05:40.196Z

Creating my own creamy Cajun shrimp pasta was a game-changer for my weeknight dinners. I often experiment with flavors, and the rich blend of Cajun spices makes this dish irresistible. Fresh shrimp and a homemade cream sauce come together beautifully, and I love how easy it is to customize with your favorite veggies.

One key tip I learned is to sauté the shrimp until they are just cooked through and opaque – overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture. I also recommend using fresh parsley to garnish for a burst of color and flavor that makes the dish truly pop!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy Cajun flavor that packs a punch
Creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly
Quick and easy to make for any night of the week

Key Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp can be tricky; overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture. When you cook them for 2-3 minutes per side, look for a vibrant pink color and an opaque center. If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer; shrimp are perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 120°F. For an even lighter texture, consider marinating the shrimp in a bit of lemon juice and olive oil before seasoning with Cajun spices.

The choice of Cajun seasoning is crucial in this dish. You can either buy a pre-made mix or create your own blend with paprika, cayenne, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the cayenne level according to your heat preference. Remember, a quality seasoning will not only add flavor but will also enhance the overall appearance of the dish with its vibrant colors.

Building the Creamy Sauce

When making the cream sauce, ensure that you’re using a heavy cream, as its higher fat content helps achieve that luxurious, velvety texture. Be sure to add it after sautéing the garlic, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer encourages it to thicken slightly—this typically takes about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Allow it to reduce before adding the heavy cream to introduce a layer of acidity that balances the richness. This small addition can elevate the complexity of flavors in your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Garnishing with chopped fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the spices. If you're looking for additional texture, try topping your pasta with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Pair this pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.

To customize this dish, you can easily incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Sauté them in the skillet along with the garlic before adding the cream. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a lower-carb option, swap the fettuccine for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice—just be mindful of the cooking time to keep the vegetables crisp.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before getting started:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

Sprinkle the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creamy Cajun shrimp pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced bell peppers or hot sauce to the cream sauce. This dish is versatile, so feel free to get creative with it!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a busy week, consider preparing the Cajun shrimp ahead of time. Cook the shrimp through and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp in the sauce along with the pasta until heated through. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld further during the resting period.

The sauce can also be made in advance. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a bit of cream or pasta water to regain the original smoothness and ensure it doesn't separate.

Storage and Freezing

If you have leftover creamy Cajun shrimp pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce's consistency. Stir frequently until heated through—this helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta without the shrimp for up to a month. Cooked shrimp do not freeze well as they can become rubbery. To prepare, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and stir in freshly cooked shrimp just before serving. This keeps the dish fresh while still retaining its rich flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce seems too thin, continue to simmer it gently. The heat helps evaporate excess moisture, concentrating the flavors. Alternatively, you can whisk in a slurry made from cornstarch and water, which will thicken the sauce quickly without altering the flavor. Aim for a glossy and thick consistency that will coat the pasta beautifully.

Should you find the pasta too sticky after mixing, adding reserved pasta water slowly will help. Start with a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved. Remember, the key is to blend the pasta and sauce so that it clings to each noodle, creating that comforting mouthfeel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While fettuccine works great, you can substitute with your favorite pasta such as penne or linguine.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to medium spice level due to the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and then quickly warm them up when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy dish.