Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is bursting with bold flavors and a velvety sauce that's perfect for a quick, indulgent weeknight dinner.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta wide, flat noodle
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined, medium to large size
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing the shrimp and vegetables
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 cup heavy cream creates the creamy base of the sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth to lighten the cream and build flavor
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning brings heat and smokiness
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce for a nutty, savory finish
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish and a touch of herbal brightness
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Preparing the Shrimp
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper over medium heat until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Building the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained fettuccine pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Garnishing and Serving
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or low-fat cream alternatives.
- Use whole wheat or chickpea fettuccine to add more fiber and nutrients.
- To increase spiciness, add extra Cajun seasoning or fresh jalapeños.
- Prepare pasta and shrimp ahead and keep separate; reheat sauce and combine when ready.
- Add cream cheese or mascarpone at the end for an even richer sauce.