Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- Season the shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning evenly to infuse flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked linguine into the sauce ensuring it is evenly coated.
- 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