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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta That's Ready in Just 30 Minutes

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick, one-pan dish that transforms shrimp and pasta into a rich, flavorful meal in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Fettuccine or Penne Pasta Any pasta shape can work
For the Shrimp
  • 1 lb Shrimp (peeled & deveined) Use either tail-on or off
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning A homemade mix will elevate flavors
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute vegetable oil if needed
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Opt for unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is best
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be an alternative
  • ½ cup Chicken Broth or Pasta Water Use pasta water for added starchiness
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika (optional) Substitute smoked paprika for extra flavor
Final Seasoning
  • Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste
  • Chopped parsley (optional) For garnish
  • Red pepper flakes (optional) For added heat
  • Lemon juice (optional) For a kick of acidity

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large skillet
  • tongs

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
  1. Cook a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, warm olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook until pink.
  3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth or pasta water, stirring to combine.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is thick.
  5. Return shrimp to the skillet and add drained pasta. Toss until coated in sauce.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Serve hot, garnished as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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