Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both indulgent and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. This delightful recipe brings together succulent shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, and a hint of Cajun spice that dances on your palate. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in or a fancy dinner party. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight option!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is easy enough to conquer. The combination of textures and flavors will impress anyone at your dinner table, and the vibrant colors will make your plate pop. So let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up.
- Flavor explosion: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick that elevates the dish.
- Creamy goodness: The heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
- 3/4 pound medium shrimp, thawed & peeled
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 small onion, chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 8 large leaves basil, torn
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste
What’s in the Gear List
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Skillet: To cook the shrimp and sauce.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Colander: To drain the pasta.
- Measuring spoons: For accuracy in your measurements.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the 8 ounces of uncooked pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once melted and hot, add the 3/4 pound of medium shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped 1/4 small onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Then, add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and the 3 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir continuously, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Add the torn basil leaves, and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with extra basil if desired, and dig in while it’s hot!
In-Season Swaps
- For a lighter version, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the sauté for additional nutrition.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried for a burst of freshness.
Mistakes That Ruin Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Overcooking the shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture; cook just until pink and opaque.
- Using low-quality cream can result in a less rich sauce; opt for heavy cream for the best flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning can dull the dish; adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste.
- Not tasting as you go can lead to unbalanced flavors; always adjust salt and seasoning as needed.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly make it ahead of time! Here are some tips for meal prep and storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- For meal prep, cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then combine when ready to eat.
- Freeze the sauce (without shrimp) for up to a month; just cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs like oregano and thyme.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What pasta works best for this dish?
You can use any type of pasta you like, but fettuccine or linguine works particularly well with creamy sauces. Feel free to get creative with your choice!
Healthy-ish Favorites
That’s a Wrap
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and tender shrimp, it’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and create this delicious dish tonight. You won’t regret it!
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and happy. So dig in, and let the flavors take you to a delicious place!
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the 8 ounces of uncooked pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once melted and hot, add the 3/4 pound of medium shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the finely chopped 1/4 small onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Then, add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and the 3 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir continuously, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Add the torn basil leaves, and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Plate the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with extra basil if desired, and dig in while it’s hot!
Notes
- For a lighter version, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for additional nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
