Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or linguine; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Classics

I absolutely love making this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a flavorful weeknight dinner. The combination of spices gives the shrimp a delightful kick, while the creamy sauce takes the dish to another level of comfort. It only takes 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when I want something satisfying but do not have hours to spend in the kitchen. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser and it's always a hit with my family and friends!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:28:38.188Z

One of my favorite things about this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is how quickly it comes together. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was a bit intimidated by the spices, but with just the right amount of seasoning, the shrimp turned out phenomenal! The key is to not shy away from the Cajun seasoning; it really elevates the dish.

I also love how the creamy sauce works harmoniously with the pasta. To make it extra special, I always add a touch of garlic and a sprinkle of parsley at the end. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing on the plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce with a hint of spice
Succulent shrimp that soak up all the flavors
Quick and easy preparation — perfect for busy nights

Pasta Perfection

Cooking the pasta to the right texture is crucial for this dish. For fettuccine or linguine, you want to aim for 'al dente,' which means firm to the bite. Typically, this takes around 7-10 minutes depending on the brand, so be sure to check the package instructions. Once cooked, draining the pasta thoroughly prevents excess water from diluting your creamy sauce later on.

After draining, a quick tip to boost flavor is to toss the pasta with a small amount of olive oil. This step not only helps to keep the strands from sticking together but also adds a layer of richness that enhances the overall depth of the dish.

Shrimp Cooking Techniques

When sautéing shrimp, it's essential not to overcrowd the skillet; this can lead to steaming rather than searing. If you're cooking a larger batch, consider doing it in two batches to ensure even cooking. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes, as overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. You want them just cooked through for the best texture.

The addition of Cajun seasoning brings not only heat but also complexity to the dish. If you're sensitive to spice, start with half the amount and adjust to taste. The garlic should be added once the shrimp are nearly finished cooking, as it only needs about 30 seconds to become fragrant without burning.

Sauce Secrets

The heavy cream is what makes this sauce luxuriously creamy, but if you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted, though the texture will be slightly thinner. For a vegan variation, try using coconut cream paired with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Regardless of the choice, keep the heat low while adding cream to avoid curdling.

Stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese off the heat allows it to melt gently into the sauce without clumping. If your sauce seems too thick once combined with the pasta, adding a splash of pasta water can help loosen it without losing flavor. The key is to achieve a glossy consistency that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or linguine
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Add the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, stirring until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce and shrimp. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sauce. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or veggies for variations.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, it's best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can typically last up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.

Freezing is not the ideal option due to the cream base, which can separate when thawed. However, if you do choose to freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Just remember, the texture of the shrimp may change after thawing.

Creative Variations

Feel free to jazz up the dish with additional vegetables! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even spinach can be sautéed with the shrimp for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of adding them early enough so they soften, yet not too early that they lose their bright appearance.

For anyone looking for a twist, consider adding a splash of white wine before the cream for depth of flavor. Allow it to reduce slightly for a punchy contrast to the creamy sauce. Alternatively, a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end can brighten up the dish, enhancing the Cajun spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.

→ What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own mix using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh as the pasta can become soggy when reheated.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk, but the flavor and texture may vary.