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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta For A Delicious Weeknight Meal

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights, combining succulent shrimp with a rich, zesty sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Spoon

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Fresh large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces Pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • to taste Chopped green onions (optional) For garnish

Instructions
 

  • 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  • 2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • 3. Add shrimp in a single layer, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  • 4. In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and stir, scraping up any bits from the pan. Allow to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  • 5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  • 6. Fold cooked shrimp back into the pasta and sauce, ensuring even distribution.
  • 7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • 8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

This dish can be customized with vegetables or different proteins. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keyword Easy