Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz. pasta (fettuccine or linguine); 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Classics

I absolutely love making this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta when I want a quick yet indulgent meal. The combination of succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy sauce flavored with Cajun spices makes my taste buds dance with joy. I often serve it on busy weeknights when I need a comforting dish that doesn't take too long to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I find it's the perfect way to enjoy a sophisticated dinner at home, and it always impresses family and friends.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:37:35.892Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, I wanted something that felt both comforting and exciting. The secret lies in the blend of Cajun spices that packs a punch, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. I remember the first time I made it, and the rich, creamy sauce enveloped the pasta beautifully, creating a truly memorable dish.

One key tip I learned is to sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink, which keeps them tender and juicy. Adding the cream and spices at the right moment creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. It’s one of those recipes that I can’t help but crave again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The spicy kick from Cajun seasoning brings a delightful warmth.
Creamy, rich sauce that perfectly coats every strand of pasta.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite.

Perfecting the Flavor

The key to this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta lies in the balance of flavors. Cajun seasoning is not just about heat; it includes a blend of spices such as paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder that enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This bright acidity cuts through the richness of the heavy cream and complements the spice, making every bite pop.

When it comes to the shrimp, size does matter. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for this recipe, as they provide a satisfying bite and hold up well in the creamy sauce. The shrimp should be cooked until they are just pink and opaque, typically around 2-3 minutes on each side. Overcooking can lead to rubbery textures, so keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.

Boosting Texture and Color

Incorporating cherry tomatoes not only adds a splash of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cream. As the tomatoes cook, they release their juices, which helps to create a more complex sauce. You can also experiment with other veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them briefly in the skillet before adding the cream to retain some of their crunch.

For a gourmet touch, consider finishing your pasta with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients enhance the pasta's mouthfeel and provide an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish even further. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne pepper can also amplify the heat without overpowering the other ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz. pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add heavy cream and cherry tomatoes. Stir and let simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing well to ensure everything is coated in the creamy sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. It brightens up the richness of the dish beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly, so adjust your seasoning accordingly. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta; many brands offer varieties that cook up beautifully and maintain a nice al dente bite.

Vegetarians can also enjoy a version of this recipe by swapping shrimp for grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, seasoned similarly with Cajun spices. The creamy sauce will still work wonderfully with these alternatives, creating a satisfying dish that pleases both vegetarians and meat-lover alike.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can easily make the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on low heat before adding the cooked pasta and shrimp. Avoid microwaving it, as this can cause the cream to separate, leading to an unappealing texture. If you're planning to make this dish for meal prep, cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook when you reheat it later.

Freezing is also an option if you want to prepare this dish in bulk. However, I recommend freezing the sauce and pasta separately to prevent the cream from affecting the pasta's texture upon thawing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce is too thick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Any pasta you prefer will work well, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and add the shrimp and pasta when ready to serve.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for best results.