Print

Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

5.2 from 21 reviews

This Creamy Cajun Pasta recipe is a delicious fusion of spicy Cajun flavors with a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit with its bold and flavorful profile.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Cajun Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Pasta:

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients and mix well. Set aside.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Combine: Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth as needed.
  6. Finish: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
  7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
  • For a twist, try adding sliced bell peppers and onions to the pasta for extra flavor and texture.
  • This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Nutrition