Get ready to set your taste buds on fire with the most mouthwatering Cajun Shrimp Pasta that'll transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana! 🌶️🍤 This isn't just another pasta dish - it's a flavor explosion that combines succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and a kick of spice that will make your dinner guests beg for the recipe. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking to add some excitement to your weeknight meals, this Simple Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season thoroughly with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coating.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine with vegetables. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce begins to thicken.
- Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat with cream sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
Tips
- Pat the shrimp completely dry before seasoning to ensure they get a perfect sear and don't steam in the pan.
- Use fresh Cajun seasoning for the most vibrant flavor - homemade or a high-quality store-bought blend works best.
- Don't overcook the shrimp! They should be pink and slightly charred, which typically takes only 2-3 minutes per side.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining - it's liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its creamy, spicy best!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 250mg
