Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality pasta dish that’s bold, creamy, and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place. This Cajun Shrimp Pasta delivers the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, with succulent shrimp coated in a rich, smoky sauce. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes—because who doesn’t love a quick and easy meal that tastes like pure comfort?

Are You Ready to Spice Up Your Dinner?

There’s something about Cajun seasoning that takes ordinary dishes to the next level. With its smoky paprika, zesty garlic, and fiery cayenne, it adds just the right amount of heat and depth to this pasta. But don’t worry—you can easily adjust the spice level to match your taste! This dish is rich, creamy, and bursting with Southern-inspired flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food. If you’ve never made a homemade Cajun pasta before, get ready—this might just become your new go-to dinner favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp Pasta

• Big on Flavor – The bold Cajun spices pair beautifully with tender shrimp and a creamy, savory sauce.
• Quick & Easy – You’ll have this dish ready to serve in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Customizable Heat – Love it extra spicy? Go for it! Prefer it milder? No problem—you control the spice level.
• One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor. This recipe comes together in just one skillet, making your life easier.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home – It’s just as delicious as your favorite Cajun pasta from a restaurant, but way more budget-friendly.

Trust me, once you try this Cajun Shrimp Pasta, it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients

Before you start, gather everything you need to make this Cajun Shrimp Pasta effortlessly. Simple ingredients, bold flavors—this dish is all about easy, delicious cooking!

• Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined. Medium to large shrimp work best.
• Pasta – Fettuccine, linguine, or penne hold the sauce beautifully.
• Heavy Cream – Creates that rich, creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a deep, savory kick.
• Garlic & Onion – Essential for building flavor.
• Bell Peppers – A pop of color and sweetness.
• Cajun Seasoning – The star of the show! Use store-bought or homemade.
• Butter & Olive Oil – A duo for perfectly cooked shrimp.
• Chicken Broth – Helps thin out the sauce while adding depth.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For an extra heat boost (optional).
• Note: You can find the printable recipe with exact measurements below.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Options

No gluten? No problem! Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free penne or spaghetti—just be sure to cook it al dente to prevent mushiness. Another great alternative is zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb, veggie-packed version.

Pasta Alternatives

Not a fan of traditional pasta? Try whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, or go for rigatoni or bowtie pasta if you like a different texture. For a lighter option, chickpea or lentil pasta brings extra protein while keeping things delicious.

Spice Adjustments

Love extra heat? Add more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne, or extra red pepper flakes. Prefer it mild? Reduce the Cajun seasoning slightly and use smoked paprika instead—it keeps the flavor without too much spice. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors without extra heat.

How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Step-by-Step Guide to Cajun Shrimp Pasta

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully. Toss them in Cajun seasoning, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add butter, and cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water—it’s perfect for adjusting the sauce consistency later. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Make the Cajun Sauce:

In the same skillet used for shrimp, add a little more butter and sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Sprinkle in more Cajun seasoning, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if you like it extra spicy!). Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Toss Together and Serve:

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Cajun sauce until well coated. Add the shrimp back in, mixing everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with reserved pasta water. Garnish with grated parmesan, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, creamy flavors!

Alternative Cooking Techniques

Grilling the Shrimp

For a smoky twist, grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing them. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, thread the shrimp onto skewers, and brush them with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. This method enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and adds a delicious depth of flavor.

Baking the Pasta

Want a baked version? Transfer the cooked Cajun shrimp pasta to a buttered baking dish, top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crispy texture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown. This method gives the dish a cheesy, bubbly finish—perfect for a comforting meal.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

Tips for Making the Best Cajun Shrimp Pasta

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp will always have a sweeter, more delicate flavor compared to frozen. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook fast! Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they turn pink to keep them juicy and tender.
• Balance the spice – If you love heat, add an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the seasoning and add a touch of cream.
• Reserve pasta water – This is your secret weapon! Stirring in a splash at the end helps create the perfect sauce consistency.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta – Cook your pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• Skipping the seasoning step – Seasoning the shrimp before cooking helps build flavor. If you just toss them in later, the dish won’t taste as bold.
• Letting the sauce get too thick – If your sauce reduces too much, it can become heavy. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to keep it silky and smooth.
• Using pre-cooked shrimp – Pre-cooked shrimp won’t absorb flavors as well and can turn rubbery when reheated. Always start with raw shrimp for the best results.

How to Serve

What to Serve with Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This dish is rich and creamy, so pairing it with a lighter side creates a perfect balance. A fresh side salad with a citrusy vinaigrette or steamed green beans works great. Want to go all out? Pair it with Crab Brûlée—its creamy texture and seafood richness make an elegant complement to the Cajun spice. And of course, don’t forget some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Garnishing and Presentation Tips

A beautifully plated dish makes all the difference! Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a bright contrast to the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, add a few thinly sliced scallions or a dash of smoked paprika to make the dish visually stunning and even more flavorful.

Cajun Shrimp Pasta Nutrition Facts

Caloric Breakdown and Key Nutrients

Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect in a single serving of Cajun Shrimp Pasta:

Health Benefits of Cajun Shrimp Pasta

While indulgent, Cajun Shrimp Pasta does come with some nutritional perks! Shrimp is rich in lean protein and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. The bell peppers provide vitamin C, boosting your immune system, while the parmesan cheese adds a dose of calcium for strong bones. Plus, if you opt for whole wheat pasta, you’ll get more fiber, keeping you fuller for longer.

How to Make It Healthier

Want to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor? Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk to cut back on saturated fat. Use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option. Reduce the parmesan cheese and butter slightly to lower calories. Finally, increase the veggies—add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrients while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying!

How to Store & Reheat For Later

The Right Way to Store It

Got leftovers? Store them right to keep the flavors fresh! Place your Cajun Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If meal prepping, store the sauce and pasta separately to prevent sogginess. For freezing, it’s best to freeze the sauce alone—shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated. Simply thaw the sauce overnight and toss it with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

Reheating pasta can be tricky, but here’s how to keep it tasting just as good as day one! Stovetop method: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy consistency. Microwave method: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out. Avoid high heat—gentle reheating keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce smooth!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare Cajun Shrimp Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the sauce and shrimp ahead of time. Cook the Cajun sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp to maintain the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh shrimp?

No worries! Frozen shrimp works just as well—just thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes. Be sure to pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent them from searing properly.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Easily! If you love extra heat, add more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne, or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning and substitute some with smoked paprika, which keeps the flavor bold without too much spice. A splash of cream or lemon juice also helps tone down the heat.

Can I substitute the pasta type?

Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne are classic choices, you can use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, gluten-free pasta for dietary needs, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just be mindful of cooking times—some pasta alternatives, like chickpea or lentil pasta, cook faster than traditional pasta.

Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?

Yes! Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic choice for a family meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to customize. If serving kids or those sensitive to spice, start with a mild amount of Cajun seasoning and add more heat separately for those who love it spicy.

Can I make a dairy-free version?

Definitely! Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. The result is just as creamy and flavorful, making it a great option for those with dairy restrictions!

More Easy Seafood Recipes

If you love Cajun Shrimp Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these delicious recipes next!

• Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken – A hearty, slow-cooked dish packed with tropical flavors.
• Authentic Caldo de Pollo Recipe – A comforting, savory soup that warms you up from the inside out.
• Mini Chicken Pot Pies – Bite-sized comfort food perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.

There you have it—Cajun Shrimp Pasta that’s creamy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying! This dish is proof that bold flavors and easy cooking go hand in hand. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, it’s bound to be a favorite. Don’t forget to adjust the spice level to your liking and pair it with a delicious side.

Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? We’d love to hear about it. Happy cooking!

Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and bold Cajun spices for an unforgettable dinner experience.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Cajun, Seafood

Servings 4 servings

Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Strainer

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 500 g shrimp peeled and deveined
• 300 g fettuccine pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 red bell pepper sliced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional

Instructions

 

• Pat the shrimp dry and toss with Cajun seasoning, salt, and olive oil. Let sit for a few minutes while preheating your skillet over medium-high heat.
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and toss with a little olive oil.
• In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper until softened. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in grated parmesan and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened.
• Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired sauce consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh shrimp and adjust the spice level according to your taste. Enjoy this bold and flavorful Cajun Shrimp Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread.

Keyword Pasta, Shrimp, Spicy