Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta ((your choice of spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)); 3/4 pound medium shrimp ((thawed & peeled)); 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 small onion ((chopped finely)); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes ((julienned)); 3-4 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning ((adjust to taste)); 8 large leaves basil ((torn)); Salt & pepper ((to taste)); Freshly grated parmesan cheese ((to taste))

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Indulge in a dish that perfectly marries the zest of Cajun spices with the rich creaminess of pasta. This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful twist on your traditional pasta dish, bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and tantalizing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is not just another pasta dish. It’s a celebration of flavors! The combination of succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Cajun sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

– **Quick and Easy**: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
– **Flavor Explosion**: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, while the cream provides a luscious balance.
– **Versatile**: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein.
– **Impressive Presentation**: This dish looks as good as it tastes, making it great for entertaining.

What You’ll Gather

To make this delectable Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

8 ounces uncooked pasta (your choice of spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
3/4 pound medium shrimp, thawed & peeled
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 small onion, chopped finely
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
8 large leaves basil, torn
Salt & pepper to taste
Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste

What’s in the Gear List

Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

Large pot – for boiling pasta.
Skillet – to sauté the shrimp and make the sauce.
Colander – for draining pasta.
Wooden spoon – for mixing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your measurements.

How to Prepare Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 3/4 pound of thawed and peeled shrimp. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped 1/4 small onion and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic (3-4 cloves) and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the 3 tablespoons of julienned sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a minute. Then, add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in the torn basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Divide the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta among plates and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Garnish with additional basil if desired, and enjoy!

If You’re Out Of…

Don’t worry if you find yourself lacking some ingredients! Here are some substitutions you can make:

Pasta: Use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or linguine.
Shrimp: Substitute with chicken, scallops, or tofu for a different protein.
Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
Cajun seasoning: Make a homemade blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.

Chef’s Notes

This dish is best served immediately for the creamiest texture.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance.
For a lighter version, consider using less cream or a lower-fat cream alternative.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To store your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore its creamy texture.

Ask the Chef

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option if fresh shrimp is not available.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of cream for a lighter sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Feel free to reduce the amount if you prefer a milder flavor or add more if you enjoy heat!

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before adding the pasta and shrimp when you’re ready to serve.

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Save & Share

If you loved this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share your culinary creations on social media! Tag your friends for a delightful dinner invitation or keep it as your go-to recipe for busy nights.

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something rich and flavorful. With its vibrant colors, creamy texture, and a hint of spice, it’s sure to be a hit at your dining table. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!