Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. It takes me back to evenings spent in the kitchen, the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filling the air as I whip up something special for family and friends. This dish has become a staple in my home, not just for its rich flavors but also for the memories it creates. Each bite is a delicious blend of creamy whipping cream and zesty Cajun seasoning, perfectly complementing tender shrimp and al dente pasta. I remember the first time I prepared this dish; my friends were skeptical at first. But once they tasted it, they were hooked!

This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a fancy gathering. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a showstopper on the dinner table. Not to mention, it’s surprisingly quick to prepare! When you’re craving comfort food that feels indulgent yet is easy to whip up, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is your go-to recipe. I love serving it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Main Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

The ingredients for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta work together seamlessly, creating a symphony of flavors that are sure to impress. Each component plays a crucial role, from the succulent shrimp to the creamy whipping cream that forms the base of the sauce. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness that balances the dish perfectly. Let’s take a closer look at these key players.

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta: The perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
• 3/4 pound medium shrimp: Tender and juicy, these are the stars of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sauté the onions and adds healthy fat.
• 1/4 small onion: Provides sweetness and aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth that elevates the sauce.
• 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a burst of flavor and texture.
• 3-4 cloves garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Brings the heat and authentic Cajun flavor.
• 8 large leaves basil: Freshness that brightens the dish.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for elevating the overall flavor.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste: Adds a nutty finish that ties everything together.

Recipe Directions for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Making Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a straightforward process that requires minimal prep. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this delicious meal comes together! Follow these easy steps for a delightful dinner.

1. Start by boiling a large, salted pot of water over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt and foam.
3. Next, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavor of your dish.
4. Stir in the Dijon mustard, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The aroma at this point is heavenly!
5. Pour in the heavy cream and add the Cajun seasoning. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
6. Now it’s time to add the shrimp into the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Make sure not to overcook!
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly in the warm sauce.
8. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every strand is coated in that luscious sauce.
9. Serve the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy this rich, flavorful dish with your favorite companions!

Tips for Success

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, here are some helpful tips.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the cream may separate upon thawing. Consider freezing the sauce and pasta separately.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to complement the richness of the dish.
• Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality shrimp and fresh cream for the best flavor and texture.
• Serving Temperature: Make sure to serve this dish hot for the best flavor experience.

How to Enjoy Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Now that you’ve prepared your Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, let’s discuss how to make the most of it when serving.

• Accompany with Sides: Pair with a light garden salad or some garlic bread to balance the dish’s richness.
• Occasion: This dish is perfect for dinner parties, cozy family nights, or date nights at home.
• Seasonal Touch: In the summer, consider serving it with a refreshing cucumber salad to contrast the creamy sauce.
• Presentation: Garnish with additional basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.
• Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in a container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated with a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.
• Serving Style: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, homey feel, or plate individually for a more formal presentation.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a favorite for many. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it suitable for any occasion. I encourage you to try it for yourself! You won’t regret making this delicious pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy cravings and impress your guests.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines rich flavors and creamy textures for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies every craving. With succulent shrimp, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to impress. Make it tonight for a deliciously satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine American, Cajun

Servings 4 servings

Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Peeler
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces pasta
• 3/4 pound medium shrimp thawed & peeled
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 small onion chopped finely
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes julienned
• 3-4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning see note
• 8 large leaves basil torn
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste

Instructions

 

• Start by boiling a large, salted pot of water over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
• While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt and foam.
• Next, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavor of your dish.
• Stir in the Dijon mustard, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The aroma at this point is heavenly!
• Pour in the heavy cream and add the Cajun seasoning. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
• Now it’s time to add the shrimp into the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Make sure not to overcook!
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly in the warm sauce.
• Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every strand is coated in that luscious sauce.
• Serve the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy this rich, flavorful dish with your favorite companions!

Notes

• Tip 1: Cajun seasoning can be quite salty, so be sure to give the dish a taste before adding extra salt & pepper, or use a lower sodium version.
• Tip 2: If you can only find 1 lb. bags of shrimp, use that. You don’t need to be spot on 3/4 pounds (they sell 3/4 pound bags where I live).
• Tip 3: I used the julienned (cut into strips) sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil and drained the oil prior to adding them to the pan.
• Tip 4: Feel free to remove the tails of the shrimp. I leave them on for photos but usually remove them in real life.
• Tip 5: Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy only and should be construed as an estimate rather than a guarantee. Ingredients can vary and Salt & Lavender makes no guarantees to the accuracy of this information.

Keyword Cajun shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta recipe, easy pasta recipes, weeknight dinner ideas

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Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!