Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a show-stopping seafood supper! Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce is that magical blend of elegance and comfort—a dish that instantly transports you to the Gulf Coast, bursting with the bold flavors of plump shrimp, tender crab, and a rich, spicy sauce. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or treating yourself to a special weeknight meal, this recipe delivers luxurious flavor without complicated techniques. All you need are a handful of essentials and you’ll be swirling up pure pasta bliss in under 40 minutes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce plays a vital role, from the luxurious cream to the vibrant seafood and zesty Cajun seasoning. These components come together to create a dish that’s creamy, savory, and layered with just the right kick of heat.

• Fettuccine or linguine pasta (8 ounces): Go with your favorite long noodle shape for the perfect sauce-clinging bite.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the shrimp brown beautifully and adds a fruity depth to the sauce.
• Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds rich flavor and that irresistible gloss to the finished sauce.
• Large shrimp (1/2 pound, peeled and deveined): Their sweet, meaty texture pairs perfectly with creamy sauces and balances the Cajun spices.
• Lump crab meat (1/2 pound, picked over): Adds delicate sweetness and hearty flavor—make sure there are no shells!
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with that crave-worthy, aromatic backbone.
• Shallot (1 small, finely chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness that melts into the sauce.
• Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): The secret to an ultra-luxurious, smooth sauce that hugs every noodle.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for savory depth and a touch of nuttiness.
• Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon, plus more to taste): Delivers that signature spicy-thyme-garlic kick—don’t be shy if you like it hot!
• Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the sauce with a smoky, vibrant color and flavor.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle, peppery warmth without overpowering the seafood.
• Lemon (juice of 1/2): A pop of acidity that brightens and balances the creaminess.
• Chopped parsley (for garnish): Fresh, colorful, and the finishing touch that elevates presentation and flavor.

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 add your fettuccine or linguine. Cook just until al dente, according to package directions—this ensures your noodles keep their perfect bite when tossed in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside; don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water in case you want to thin out your sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. It’s important not to overcook them, as they’ll finish cooking a bit more when assembled with the sauce. Remove the shrimp and set aside—they’re the stars of your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce!

Step 3: Build the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture becomes soft and fragrant. The garlic and shallot will soak up all that delicious seafood flavor left in the pan, setting the stage for your ultra-creamy Cajun sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer (don’t let it boil). Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Continue simmering the mixture for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly and the cheese melts completely. That fragrant, cozy aroma will tell you you’re on the right track!

Step 5: Add Crab, Shrimp, and Lemon

Reduce the heat to low and gently fold in the lump crab meat and cooked shrimp. Squeeze in the lemon juice for a fresh pop that balances all the rich flavors. Stir just until everything is evenly coated and the seafood is warmed through. You want the crab to stay in beautiful, tender lumps.

Step 6: Toss in the Pasta

Add the drained pasta right into the skillet and use tongs to toss it with the luscious Cajun sauce and seafood until every strand gleams. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Warm everything together for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Take the skillet off the heat, sprinkle generously with chopped parsley, and adjust Cajun seasoning to taste. Serve your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce immediately, while it’s silky and piping hot!

How to Serve Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce

Garnishes

Finish your plates with a flurry of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. For extra richness, shave a bit more Parmesan over the top, or add a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to squeeze. A dusting of Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika adds a little pop of color and a touch of dramatic flair.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce is divine on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or simple roasted asparagus. Warm, crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up the last drops of the creamy Cajun sauce—no judgment for extra sopping!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your meal into a restaurant-worthy presentation by twirling nests of pasta with tongs, topping each with a few shrimp and generous morsels of crab. For a fun dinner-party touch, nestle the pasta into shallow bowls and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers. You can even serve the pasta in a large family-style platter for an inviting, shareable centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors will continue to develop, but keep in mind that seafood is always best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce and delicate seafood make this dish best enjoyed right away, you can freeze it if absolutely necessary. Place completely cooled pasta in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month, but know that the texture of the sauce may change after thawing.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Stir carefully so the shrimp and crab stay tender—not rubbery. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but use low power and cover the dish to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta besides fettuccine or linguine?

Absolutely! While long noodles do a great job of holding onto the luscious sauce, penne, spaghetti, or even pappardelle work well. Just cook to al dente so your pasta can soak up all the flavor.

How spicy is the Cajun sauce?

The heat level is medium as written, but it’s easy to adjust. For a milder dish, start with less Cajun seasoning and add more to taste. If you love bold flavors, toss in extra or even a pinch of cayenne.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?

Yes! Use half-and-half for a lighter, less rich sauce, or substitute with coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan for a creamy, pescatarian-friendly twist. Just note that the flavor and texture will change slightly.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked or frozen shrimp and crab?

Pre-cooked or frozen seafood works in a pinch. Just thaw and pat dry before adding, and be careful not to overcook—add them at the final stage just to heat through.

Can I prepare Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce ahead of time for a party?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce ahead and store separately from the pasta and seafood. When ready to serve, quickly cook the shrimp and crab, combine everything, and reheat gently so the flavors are vibrant and the seafood stays succulent.

Final Thoughts

Bring a taste of Louisiana to your table and treat yourself to some serious comfort with Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce. It’s a recipe that turns any meal into a celebration. So grab your skillet, invite friends, and let these luscious flavors steal the show—trust me, you’ll want to make this dish again and again!

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