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Perfect Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

This recipe combines succulent blackened shrimp with cavatappi pasta, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 12 ounces Cavatappi Pasta Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Shrimp

  • 1 pound Large Shrimp Peeled and deveined.

Blackening Spices

  • 1 tablespoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 pinch Salt

Cooking Oil

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin for cooking the shrimp.

Sauce

  • 1 cup Heavy Cream For a rich and creamy consistency.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated, to add depth to the sauce.

Garnish

  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnish.

Seasoning

  • Salt and Pepper To taste.

Instructions
 

  • 1. Cook the cavatappi pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
  • 2. In a small bowl, mix the blackening spices and coat the shrimp evenly.
  • 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque and charred.
  • 4. Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream, scraping up any bits from the shrimp.
  • 5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • 6. Add the drained cavatappi to the sauce, tossing to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  • 7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and heat through for another minute.
  • 8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For variations, consider adding seasonal vegetables, adjusting spice levels, or using different proteins.
Keyword Easy