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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

A delicious Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe ready in under 30 minutes, featuring buttery shrimp and a rich creamy sauce.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Cajun, Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 523 kcal

Equipment

  • pot
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon cajun seasoning divided or added to taste
  • 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese plus more to serve
  • 2 tablespoon parsley to garnish, optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the penne pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Keep some of the pasta water for the sauce then drain the pasta and cover to keep warm.
  • Coat the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of the cajun seasoning. In a deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and saute for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is no longer translucent, remove from skillet and cover to keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoon butter with the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add in the diced tomatoes and saute for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Pour in the heavy whipping cream, remaining 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning and grated parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer then reduce to medium/low heat and continue 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
  • Add the shrimp and pasta back into the skillet and stir until the noodles are coated in sauce and everything is heated through. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce. To serve, garnish with more parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

Different brands of cajun seasoning have varying amounts of salt and spiciness. If your seasoning is saltier, start with half of the seasoning and add more to taste. Variations include substituting penne for other pasta types and adding vegetables like onion or bell peppers.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 523kcal
Keyword Cajun Pasta, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, Easy Dinner, pasta recipe, Shrimp Pasta
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