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–+ servings
Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines succulent shrimp with creamy sauce and hearty penne for a comforting dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta Feel free to substitute with any pasta you love.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 lb Fresh Shrimp If using frozen, thaw before cooking.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Salted butter can be used if preferred.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Canned crushed tomatoes may be substituted.
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Can swap for low-fat milk.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best flavor.
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Parsley Adds freshness and color.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • deep skillet
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Shrimp Pasta
  1. Thaw shrimp if using frozen, either under cold running water for about 10 minutes or in the fridge for several hours.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. In a deep skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Toss shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning and sauté for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and cover to keep warm.
  4. Melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and the remaining Cajun seasoning, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook together for an additional 2 minutes.
  6. Lower the heat and add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine. Gradually mix in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  7. Return the sautéed shrimp and the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together for about 2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
  8. Plate the Cajun Shrimp Pasta, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 1100mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Serve alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for an elevated dining experience.

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