Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful dish that brings a taste of the South right to your plate. With tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and zesty Cajun seasoning, this meal is sure to please family and friends alike. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, it combines bold flavors that are both spicy and comforting. Lastly, you can customize it to suit your taste, whether you like it extra spicy or with more veggies.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Making Cajun Shrimp Pasta is simple and fun! Follow these steps to enjoy this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water before draining. Let the pasta chill.
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are opaque. Then, set the shrimp aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic, onion, and red bell pepper, and sauté for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and mixed well.
- Toss in the cooked shrimp and pasta. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley before serving hot.
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Serve Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste. If you prefer mild flavors, start with less and add more as needed.
- To make the dish even creamier, consider adding more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.
Variation
You can try Cajun Chicken Pasta by swapping out the shrimp for chicken. Simply cook the chicken until fully done and follow the same recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
2. Is this dish spicy?
Cajun seasoning adds spice to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve.
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