Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta brings bold flavor to a quick weeknight meal. This dish pairs tender shrimp with a creamy sauce that has a lively Cajun kick. It uses simple pantry items and fresh bell peppers for color and crunch. You can make it in about thirty minutes from start to finish. The sauce coats the fettuccine in a smooth, rich layer that tastes like a restaurant plate but comes from your own kitchen.

Begin by cooking pasta until it is just firm. Sear seasoned shrimp in a hot skillet so they turn pink and stay juicy. Use the same pan to soften peppers and garlic, then stir in cream and a touch of cheese to bind the sauce. When you mix the pasta back with the shrimp, the sauce clings to each strand for a full bite. This recipe lets you control the spice level. Add a little more Cajun seasoning for heat, or keep it mild for kids.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta works well for a casual night or a small dinner with friends. It looks bright on the plate and tastes lively. You can tweak vegetables or cheese to match what you have. Serve with lemon slices.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This spicy pasta balances heat, cream, and fresh shrimp. You get bold flavor in a quick dish that feels special. The cream smooths the spice and makes a silky sauce that clings to fettuccine. Shrimp cook fast and stay tender when you watch them. Bell peppers add color and a mild bite. You can change the heat to suit the whole family. The recipe uses few ingredients and one pan for most cooking, so cleanup stays easy. It works well for weeknights, small dinners, or any time you want a bright, filling meal without fuss and tastes great reheated often.

How to Make Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red and green)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet.
3. Add Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté chopped bell peppers and minced garlic until fragrant and soft, around 3-4 minutes.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly until combined with vegetables. Simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Toss Everything Together: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet along with drained pasta. Mix well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
6. Add Finishing Touches: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt or more Cajun seasoning if desired.

How to Serve Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Serve the pasta hot so the sauce stays silky. Plate a nest of fettuccine then arrange shrimp on top. Add extra grated Parmesan if you like. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the sauce. A simple green salad or steamed veggies make a good side. Keep bread on the table to soak up any extra sauce.

How to Store Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cool leftover pasta quickly after serving. Store in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze the cooked cream sauce; texture can change. If you must freeze, save shrimp and sauce separately from pasta for best results.

Tips for the Best Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

• Use fresh shrimp when you can for the best texture.
• Do not overcook shrimp; they turn tough fast.
• Taste the sauce before serving and adjust Cajun seasoning slowly.
• Warm the pasta briefly in the skillet so the sauce binds well.
• Thin the sauce with a little pasta water if it gets too thick.

Recipe Variations (if any)

• Make it milder by using less Cajun seasoning.
• Add sliced cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of flavor.
• Stir in chopped spinach at the end for extra greens.
• Swap fettuccine for linguine or penne for a different bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw them first and pat dry before cooking so they sear well.

Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste.

Q: Can I use a lighter cream?
A: You can try half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner. Simmer a bit longer to help it thicken.

Conclusion

For a simple version of this dish you can compare methods and tips at Cajun Shrimp Pasta – Self Proclaimed Foodie. For another creamy approach and serving ideas, see Best Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe.

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