Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a touch of Louisiana magic mingled with the sweetness of shellfish, this Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce will absolutely hit the spot. Imagine tender shrimp and luscious lumps of crab clinging to silky strands of pasta, all coated in a luxuriously spiced, creamy Cajun sauce. It’s a weeknight stunner, a perfect dinner party dish, and one of those meals that always earns rave reviews. If you love a bit of spice, crave comforting flavors, and adore creamy pasta, this is the one to remember!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients—each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, with the seafood lending sweetness, the creamy sauce providing richness, and Cajun spices uniting it all with a kick of deep Southern flair.

• Pasta (12 ounces linguine or fettuccine): The perfect foundation for soaking up every drop of creamy Cajun sauce.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Gives a fruity note while helping the shrimp sear beautifully.
• Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Brings juicy texture and succulent flavor—fresh or frozen-thawed both work well.
• Lump crab meat (8 ounces): Adds sweet, delicate bursts that make this pasta extra special; fresh or good-quality canned are both options.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Enhances the sauce’s richness and silky finish.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Sautéed just until fragrant, it infuses the pasta with mellow, aromatic depth.
• Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): The star spice blend that brings bold, smoky, peppery flavor—adjust to your heat preference.
• Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Boosts the sauce with earthy undertones and a gorgeous color.
• Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, sweet allium note without overpowering the dish.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to that dreamy, velvety sauce.
• Chicken or seafood broth (½ cup): Lightens the sauce and echoes the seafood flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into the sauce, adding savory, nutty richness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for rounding out all the flavors—taste as you go!
• Chopped parsley (2 tablespoons): Adds fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: Their acidity brightens the richness—don’t skip this final touch!

How to Make Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then drop in the linguine or fettuccine. Cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve a little pasta water for later in case your sauce needs loosening.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While your pasta is bubbling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with a pinch of Cajun seasoning, then nestle them into the hot pan. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and opaque (don’t overcook—they’ll finish in the sauce). Transfer the shrimp to a plate and keep nearby.

Step 3: Build the Cajun Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the butter. Once melted and bubbling, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Next, add the rest of your Cajun seasoning, the smoked paprika, and onion powder, stirring them into the garlicky butter so their flavors bloom.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the heavy cream and broth into your skillet, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer—don’t rush this step. Lower the heat a bit, then slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt fully. The sauce will thicken slightly and become incredibly silky after about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gently fold in the lump crab meat and your sautéed shrimp, making sure every piece is coated with that luscious creamy Cajun sauce. Add your drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything so the flavors are evenly distributed. If the sauce feels a little thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Spoon the Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce into serving bowls. Scatter over plenty of chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Serve each portion with a wedge of lemon for squeezing, letting that zesty acidity lift the rich flavors on every plate.

How to Serve Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce

Garnishes

For maximum visual appeal and a burst of freshness, don’t hold back on garnishes. I love a generous sprinkle of chopped flat-leaf parsley, a snowfall of extra Parmesan, and—if you like a little extra heat—some thinly sliced green onions or a tiny pinch of cayenne. The lemon wedge on the side isn’t merely decorative; a little squeeze brightens the entire Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce, sharpening all those creamy, spicy flavors.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty, but pairing it with easy sides rounds out the meal beautifully. Think warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette, perfect for swiping up every drop of that Cajun cream sauce. For a crisp counterpoint, a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of rich seafood pasta. Roasted or grilled asparagus, or a side of sautéed spinach, also fit the Cajun vibe perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful or hosting friends, try twirling the pasta into high, restaurant-style nests using tongs. Serve in shallow pasta bowls with a few whole shrimp perched on top for a showstopping effect. For individual servings at a party, you can even place a little mound of Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce in small ramekins, topped with a lemon wedge and a single sprig of parsley—guests will be absolutely wowed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The pasta will soak up some of the sauce as it sits, but the flavors of shrimp, crab, and Cajun spice meld beautifully over time. Just be sure to let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing it up to keep everything tasting fresh.

Freezing

While you can freeze Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce, the creamy component may separate upon thawing. If you decide to freeze, portion leftovers into individual airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to maintain the best possible texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to reawaken the sauce’s silkiness. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, just until heated through—take care not to overcook the shrimp and crab so they remain tender. Microwave reheating works in a pinch for single servings, but keep the heat medium-low to avoid toughening the seafood.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and canned crab for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw your shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. Good-quality canned crab works well if fresh isn’t available—just check for any bits of shell and drain well.

How spicy is Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce?

The classic Cajun seasoning brings a moderate kick, but it’s easy to tailor the heat. For more spice, add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Prefer it milder? Start with half the amount of Cajun seasoning and adjust to taste.

What’s the best type Main Course

Linguine and fettuccine are perfect for the creamy Cajun sauce, but you can substitute spaghetti or even pappardelle if you like. Short shapes like penne or rigatoni catch the seafood and sauce well, too—just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce ahead for a party?

You can cook the pasta and prep all the seafood in advance. When you’re ready, reheat the sauce gently and toss with the shrimp, crab, and pasta just before serving to keep everything perfectly tender and creamy.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check your Cajun seasoning and broth labels for hidden gluten—lots of brands are gluten-free but double-check to stay safe.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce is so much more than a weeknight meal—it’s a celebration of creamy, spicy, seafood-filled goodness that never fails to impress. I hope this recipe brings some Cajun warmth and serious flavor to your table. Gather your favorite people, pop open something cold, and get ready for rave reviews. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!

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