Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or linguine; Salt, for pasta water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

When I first created this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, I wanted a dish that packed a punch of flavor while remaining wonderfully comforting. The rich blend of Cajun spices with succulent shrimp in a luscious cream sauce is an experience that tingles the taste buds. Pair it with your favorite pasta, and you'll have a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. It's perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Let me share how to make this delightful dish with you!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:05:36.641Z

Experimenting with flavors is one of my culinary passions, and the day I put Cajun spices with shrimp and cream, I hit the jackpot. The creaminess balances the kick of seasoning, turning the dish into a satisfying symphony of tastes. I still remember the first time I served it—everyone went back for seconds!

One tip I learned through trial and error is to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. This dish is best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, reheat gently to maintain that creamy consistency. Enjoy this dish, and let it take you on a flavorful journey!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold Cajun flavor that sets your taste buds alight
Creamy sauce that wraps around pasta perfectly
Quick to make, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Perfecting the Cajun Flavor

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the Cajun seasoning, which brings a unique combination of spices that can truly elevate the shrimp. If you find your seasoning lacks heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Conversely, for a milder version, you can make your own Cajun blend by combining paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano. Allow the shrimp to marinate in the seasoning for about 15-30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavor profile.

When sautéing the shrimp, ensure your skillet is preheated on medium heat. This method not only helps the shrimp cook evenly but also gives a nice sear that enhances the overall flavor. Watch closely; shrimp cook quickly, turning opaque and pink within 2-3 minutes. Overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture, so it’s best to remove them from the heat just as they turn visibly pink and no longer translucent.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

For the sauce, using heavy cream is essential as it gives that rich, velvety texture, which is such a signature of this dish. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but be aware that it may alter the creaminess slightly. Incorporating the chicken broth enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish. When adding it to the skillet, let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the heavy cream; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

As you add the cherry tomatoes, they not only contribute sweetness but also a burst of freshness in every bite. Aim to look for ripe, vibrantly colored tomatoes, which will give you the best taste. They should soften and release some juices during cooking but retain their shape—typically taking about 4-5 minutes in the pan. If your sauce begins to thicken too much, simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is not just a stand-alone dish; it pairs beautifully with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which helps to cut through the richness. Alternatively, garlic bread can be a great accompaniment to soak up any remaining creamy sauce left on the plate. If you want a bit of a crunch, topping the dish with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese can add a delightful texture contrast.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, it's best to prepare the pasta and sauce separately. Cooked pasta can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, and the sauce will keep well for about the same time. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid separation in the cream. Additionally, this dish freezes surprisingly well; portion it out before freezing, making sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or linguine
Salt, for pasta water

For the Cajun Shrimp Sauce

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, add them to the skillet, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.

Combine Everything

Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet, mix well, and season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add some cayenne pepper to the sauce or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Variations to Consider

If you're in the mood for a twist on the traditional shrimp pasta, consider swapping shrimp with chicken or even a medley of vegetables for a vegetarian option. For chicken, use boneless, skinless pieces cut into bite-sized chunks and sauté until golden brown before adding the Cajun seasoning. For veggies, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus work wonderfully, adding vibrant colors and textures to your dish.

Another fun variation is to add cheese into the mix. Incorporating a handful of grated Parmesan cheese into the finished sauce can enhance its creaminess and add a delightful depth of flavor. You could also sprinkle some crumbly feta on top before serving for a tangy twist that pairs well with the richness of the cream sauce.

Common Issues and Fixes

One common issue when making creamy sauces is that they can sometimes break or separate. If you notice this happening, quickly remove the pan from heat and whisk in a bit of warm liquid, such as more broth or cream, to bring it back together. Ensure your heat isn’t too high, as this can cause the cream to curdle; a gentle simmer is ideal.

Another point to be cautious about is the seasoning. With bold flavors like Cajun, it’s essential to taste and adjust throughout the cooking process. If you find it too salty or spicy at first, balance it out with a dash of acidity, such as lemon juice, or a touch of sugar to mellow the flavors. Always adjust before combining the pasta to ensure the entire dish is harmonious in taste.

Scaling the Recipe

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe is easily scalable, perfect for entertaining larger groups or meal prep. If you’re doubling the recipe, keep in mind that your sauce will also need more time to simmer, so adjust your heat accordingly to ensure it thickens correctly without burning. A larger skillet can also help to avoid crowding the shrimp, allowing them to sear rather than steam.

When scaling up, consider the balance of spices; it’s generally safer to increase the seasoning in smaller increments, tasting as you go. This way, you can avoid overwhelming the dish with flavors. For a big group, consider serving the pasta family-style, garnished with fresh herbs or extra green onions to create an inviting presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat.