Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich, spicy sauce served over linguine. This recipe is quick to make and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with a touch of Southern flair.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt, to taste
• 1 lb linguine
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the linguine according to package directions. Before draining, save one cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add a drizzle of olive oil and toss to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
3. Step 3: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook just until pink, about 2 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate.
4. Step 4: In the same saucepan, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook until the mixture turns slightly golden, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
5. Step 5: Slowly whisk in the white wine and heavy cream, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Cook for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Step 6: Add the reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: Mix the cooked linguine into the sauce, coating the noodles evenly.
8. Step 8: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and add the chopped fresh parsley. Stir everything together and check the seasoning, adjusting salt as needed.

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the Cajun seasoning or substitute with smoked paprika and garlic powder.
• For a richer sauce, add a splash of extra heavy cream or a small amount of cream cheese when whisking in the cream.
• Substitute linguine with fettuccine or penne for a different pasta texture.
• To add vegetables, sauté bell peppers or spinach with the shrimp before setting them aside.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth for similar flavor without the alcohol.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 126 reviews

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining perfectly cooked linguine with juicy, spiced shrimp in a luscious Parmesan and cream sauce, lightly enhanced with white wine and fresh parsley for a delightful Cajun twist.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

Pasta

• 1 lb linguine
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the linguine: Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Return the drained pasta to the pot and add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking.
2. Season the shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning evenly to infuse flavor.
3. Cook the shrimp: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and cook the shrimp just until they turn pink, about 2 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the roux: In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook this mixture until it turns slightly golden, which helps develop a nutty flavor.
5. Add liquids: Gradually whisk in the dry white wine and heavy cream to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook this creamy mixture for about a minute to thicken slightly.
6. Incorporate pasta water and cheese: Whisk in the reserved pasta cooking water and the Parmesan cheese. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked linguine into the sauce ensuring it is evenly coated.
8. Add shrimp and parsley: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, add chopped fresh parsley, and gently mix everything together. Check seasoning and adjust salt if needed before serving.

Notes

• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help sauce cling to pasta.
• Cook shrimp quickly to avoid overcooking and keep them tender.
• Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and texture in the sauce.
• For a spicier kick, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• White wine can be substituted with chicken broth if preferred.

Keywords: Cajun shrimp pasta, creamy pasta, shrimp linguine, Cajun seasoning pasta, easy shrimp dinner