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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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