Can I make Cajun shrimp pasta without heavy cream?

While heavy cream adds a rich, smooth texture that balances the spices, you can substitute it with half and half or a coconut milk alternative for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy and may taste spicier without the cream’s mellowing effect. Adjust the amount of dairy substitute to maintain the sauce consistency, and consider adding a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to help thicken the sauce.

What type of shrimp is best for Cajun shrimp pasta?

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp, such as 21-25 count size, are ideal because they cook quickly and remain tender. Fresh shrimp is preferred, but frozen shrimp that is properly thawed can also be used. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as cooking them again can make them rubbery and less flavorful. Cooking raw shrimp with the Cajun spices infuses the dish with a more robust taste.

Can I prepare Cajun shrimp pasta in advance?

It’s best to prepare Cajun shrimp pasta fresh to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy. If you need to make it ahead, cook the shrimp separately and store the sauce and pasta separately as well. Combine and reheat gently before serving to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Reheating may slightly change the texture, but this method helps maintain better flavor and consistency.

What pasta types can I use for Cajun shrimp pasta?

Penne pasta is classic for this dish due to its shape holding the sauce well, but you can use substitutes like rigatoni, ziti, mostaccioli, or elbow macaroni. Choose pasta shapes that can trap the creamy sauce and support the shrimp pieces for a balanced bite. Cooking pasta al dente ensures it won’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Why is my Cajun shrimp pasta sauce too thin?

A thin sauce usually means it hasn’t simmered enough for the cream and cheese to thicken. Make sure to use heavy cream with at least 36% fat content and include freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which naturally thickens sauces. Simmer the sauce uncovered on medium-low heat and stir occasionally until it reaches your desired thickness. Avoid adding too much liquid, and consider a brief reduction step before adding shrimp.

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Sauce and Steak Recipe

Name: cajun shrimp pasta
Prep time: PT-486820H51M31S
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-486820H31M31S
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta for the base that holds the sauce and flavors; 1 lb shrimp provides a succulent, protein-rich seafood element; 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika adds deep smoky notes essential to cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning brings characteristic spice and heat; ¾ teaspoon dried oregano introduces herbal earthiness; ¾ teaspoon dried thyme adds subtle floral undertones; ½ teaspoon dried basil complements other herbs for balanced flavor; ½ teaspoon garlic powder enriches aroma and taste; ½ teaspoon onion powder rounds out savory facets; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper provides optional heat boost; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper adds warmth and depth; ½ teaspoon table salt plus more to taste balances all flavors; 2 tablespoons olive oil used for sautéing shrimp and vegetables; 2 tablespoons butter enhances richness of the sauce; 1 medium yellow onion diced forms a flavorful base; 2 teaspoons minced garlic elevates savory profile; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour thickens the sauce; ⅔ cup chicken broth adds savory depth and volume to sauce; 14.5 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes provides smoky sweetness and texture; 1 ½ cups heavy cream gives the signature creamy texture and richness; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese delivers savory umami and thickens sauce; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions freshens the dish visually and flavor-wise; vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms add nutrition and color

Description

🍤 Savor the bold flavors of Cajun Shrimp Pasta with a creamy sauce that perfectly balances spice and richness.
🥩 This dish pairs savory steak with tender shrimp for a flavorful, satisfying dinner experience.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta for the base that holds the sauce and flavors

1 lb shrimp provides a succulent, protein-rich seafood element

1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika adds deep smoky notes essential to cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning brings characteristic spice and heat

¾ teaspoon dried oregano introduces herbal earthiness

¾ teaspoon dried thyme adds subtle floral undertones

½ teaspoon dried basil complements other herbs for balanced flavor

½ teaspoon garlic powder enriches aroma and taste

½ teaspoon onion powder rounds out savory facets

⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper provides optional heat boost

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper adds warmth and depth

½ teaspoon table salt plus more to taste balances all flavors

2 tablespoons olive oil used for sautéing shrimp and vegetables

2 tablespoons butter enhances richness of the sauce

1 medium yellow onion diced forms a flavorful base

2 teaspoons minced garlic elevates savory profile

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour thickens the sauce

⅔ cup chicken broth adds savory depth and volume to sauce

14.5 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes provides smoky sweetness and texture

1 ½ cups heavy cream gives the signature creamy texture and richness

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese delivers savory umami and thickens sauce

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions freshens the dish visually and flavor-wise

vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms add nutrition and color

Instructions

First Step: Prepare Ingredients and Cook PastaBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later. Toss pasta with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking if cooking ahead.

Second Step: Mix Cajun Spice Blend and Season ShrimpIn a small bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Reserve 1 teaspoon for the sauce. Toss the remaining spice blend with peeled, deveined shrimp until fully coated.

Third Step: Sear ShrimpHeat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque but not overcooked (shrimp should curl into a C shape). Remove cooked shrimp and cover to keep warm.

Fourth Step: Cook Aromatics and Make SauceReduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté diced onion until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour and the reserved teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, stirring constantly until the flour is absorbed.

Fifth Step: Deglaze and Simmer SauceSlowly pour chicken broth into the skillet while scraping up browned bits. Cook until broth reduces by half, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Simmer sauce gently for 2-3 minutes; add reserved pasta water to thin sauce if necessary.

Sixth Step: Combine Pasta and ShrimpAdd cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat with creamy sauce. Return shrimp to the pan and cook just until warmed through, avoiding overcooking.

Final Step: Serve Garnished and HotServe immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Optionally, add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.

Notes

🦐 Use fresh shrimp or thoroughly thaw frozen shrimp, and avoid pre-cooked to maintain tenderness.
🌶 Adjust the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to match your preferred spice level.
🥦 Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Prep Time: 10-30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sautéing and simmering
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 590
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 1120 mg
Fat: 33 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 44 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 250 mg

Keywords: Cajun Shrimp Pasta, Creamy Sauce, Steak, Flavor-Packed Dinner