🍤 Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Here’s a bold and flavorful Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe — packed with juicy shrimp, smoky Cajun seasoning, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a quick, one-pan dinner that feels restaurant-worthy!

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🍤 Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Servings: 4

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📝 Ingredients:

• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined (tail on or off)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth or pasta water
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning until well-coated.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
5. Pour in heavy cream and broth/pasta water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan, paprika, and season to taste. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Return shrimp to pan and warm through.
8. Garnish with parsley, a sprinkle of cheese, or lemon juice if desired.

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✅ Tips:

• Use half and half for a lighter sauce.
• Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Try with chicken or andouille sausage for variation.

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🧊 Storage:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.