This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is a tasty party for your taste buds! Filled with juicy shrimp, fresh tomatoes, and a zesty sauce, it’s both rich and exciting.
Cooking it is easier than it sounds! I love how the spicy flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce—it’s a match made in heaven. You’ll be making this over and over!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine is my favorite here because its flat shape holds the creamy sauce well. You can substitute with any pasta you like, such as penne or linguine. For a gluten-free option, try using zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta!
Shrimp: Large shrimp works best for this dish, but if you prefer, you can use medium shrimp or even scallops. If seafood isn’t your thing, grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms are great alternatives.
Cajun seasoning: You can easily make your own Cajun spice blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and dried herbs, or use a store-bought mix for convenience. Adjust the amount to match your heat preferences!
Heavy cream: While heavy cream makes it rich, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Just remember that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor, which can be nice, too.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting shrimp just right is key for this recipe! Overcooking can make them rubbery, so follow these tips:
- Cook shrimp for only about 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat. They should turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done. They’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them off heat!
Using fresh, high-quality shrimp makes a difference, too. If they’re frozen, thaw them properly beforehand for the best texture. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week. Get ready to savor the creamy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and set aside. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to use later!
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Make sure they’re well coated so they pick up that delicious spicy flavor.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, take the shrimp out of the skillet and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, throw in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes:
Now, toss in the fresh tomatoes and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften a bit. Their juices will create a lovely base for the sauce.
6. Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and let it all come to a simmer. Allow it to reduce for about 2 minutes—this helps to concentrate the flavors.
7. Make it Creamy:
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy—this will take just a couple of minutes!
8. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, making sure they’re well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
9. Toss the Pasta:
Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it all together so that the pasta is well mixed with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun shrimp pasta while it’s hot!
Your family and friends will love this delightful dish packed with flavor and freshness! Enjoy!
FAQ for Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Just ensure they’re dried off before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even milk. However, keep in mind that the sauce might not be as thick and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk for a hint of tropical flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauté step for additional flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook them until they’re tender before adding the cream!
