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 or linguine; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Effortless Weeknight Cooking

When I first tried making Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, I was blown away by how quickly I could create this rich, flavorful dish. I love the way the spices come together with the cream to create a comforting sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. It's become a weeknight favorite in my home, and every time I serve it, I receive compliments and requests for the recipe. If you're looking for an easy yet elegant meal to impress your family or friends, this is the one. Give it a try!

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:45:36.445Z

The first time I made this creamy delight, it was for a dinner party, and it quickly became the star of the evening. The blend of Cajun spices adds a warmth and depth that transforms ordinary shrimp and pasta into something extraordinary. I recommend using fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Trust me; the vibrant colors and aroma will have everyone gathering around the table.

One key to achieving that luscious sauce is to reserve some pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta. I also love adding a squeeze of fresh lemon at the end to brighten the dish. It’s a simple yet effective tip that elevates the entire experience. Enjoy each bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce with a perfect kick of Cajun spice
Succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

The Role of Cajun Seasoning

Cajun seasoning is the star of this dish, infusing the shrimp with vibrant flavors that elevate the entire pasta experience. The combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs in Cajun blends creates a warming complexity that develops as it cooks. I recommend tasting a pinch of the seasoning before use; you can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you're looking for milder flavors, consider reducing the Cajun seasoning or even blending it with a touch of Italian seasoning for a different twist.

Additionally, you can customize the seasoning by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or even a splash of hot sauce for extra heat. Just remember, since Cajun seasoning varies by brand, adjust the quantity based on what you're using. You're aiming for a well-balanced kick that complements the richness of the sauce without overwhelming your taste buds.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Fettuccine and linguine are both excellent choices for this creamy sauce, as their flat shapes allow the rich sauce to cling beautifully. However, if you want to experiment, consider using penne or rigatoni. Their tubular shapes hold sauce well and offer a delightful bite. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions closely to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Another tip is to add the pasta to the sauce directly, rather than the other way around. This helps the pasta absorb some of the sauce and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Plus, if the pasta gets too thick in the skillet, just a little reserved pasta water can help you achieve the desired creamy consistency.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is its adaptability for meal prep. You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time; just store them separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding the cooked pasta and shrimp until heated through. The sauce may thicken upon standing, so adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water will restore its creamy texture.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For freezing, however, I recommend storing the sauce and pasta separately; cooked pasta doesn't freeze well and can become mushy upon thawing. To reheat, let the sauce simmer slowly, stirring frequently, until it’s creamy again and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Ingredients

To make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Dish

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are well coated.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp 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 heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.

Combine

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. These not only add color but also provide extra nutrition. Sauté your chosen vegetables along with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the cream and broth. This ensures they're tender but still vibrant and fresh in flavor.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though it won't be as rich. Likewise, using shrimp alternatives like chicken or even chickpeas can change up this dish's profile while still delivering great taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce turns out too thick, don't fret! Simply add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water or chicken broth at a time until the desired creaminess is achieved. On the flip side, if it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it naturally.

Another issue could arise from shrimp being rubbery. This generally happens when they are overcooked. Aim for a cook time of 2-3 minutes per side; you'll know they're done when they turn a beautiful pink and opaque color. Keeping an eye on the clock during this step ensures that they remain tender and succulent.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the rich and creamy pasta, creating a well-rounded meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of zest, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the flavors and provides a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

→ What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own by mixing paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta, and you're good to go.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.