Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort on a Plate

I love making this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta on busy weeknights when I want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of succulent shrimp, a spicy Cajun blend, and a rich creamy sauce tossed with pasta makes for a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe is not only simple but can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week when time is of the essence yet the craving for something delicious remains.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:49:36.020Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create something that combined the depth of Cajun spices with the creaminess of a traditional pasta dish. I found that using a combination of shrimp and Cajun seasoning really enhances the overall flavor, and the creaminess balances out the heat beautifully.

One specific tip I discovered is to sauté the shrimp until it's just pink; overcooking can lead to rubbery textures. This dish works exceptionally well when served immediately, so gather all your ingredients before cooking!

Why You Will Love This Dish
A perfect blend of spice and creaminess in each bite
Quick and easy recipe that packs a punch of flavor
Shrimp cooked to perfection for a satisfying finish

The Role of Seasoning

Cajun seasoning is the star of this dish, providing a robust, spicy kick that enhances the sweetness of the shrimp. If you're unsure about the spice level, start with a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and adjust according to your taste. Additionally, consider blending your own mix using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and oregano for a more personalized flavor profile.

As the shrimp cooks, the seasoning forms a beautiful crust that locks in moisture, creating a succulent texture. Make sure to sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—to avoid rubbery shrimp, remove them from the skillet promptly once cooked to ensure they maintain their juicy quality.

Perfecting the Sauce

The creamy sauce in this recipe is rich and luxurious thanks to the combination of heavy cream and chicken broth. To lighten it, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative, such as almond or coconut milk. Just be aware that non-dairy substitutes may alter the flavor profile slightly, so adjust the Cajun seasoning accordingly.

For an even more decadent sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine while simmering the garlic and bell peppers. This addition can elevate the flavor complexity, giving the dish a touch of sophistication. Ensure the wine simmers long enough to reduce slightly, enhancing the sauce's richness without overpowering it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted 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. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are cooked through and pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and bell peppers and sauté for about 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.

Combine

Return shrimp to the skillet and mix in the cooked fettuccine. Stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy Cajun shrimp pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Additionally, you can substitute shrimp with chicken for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A fresh arugula or spinach salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. If you're looking for something heartier, serve it with crusty bread for dipping into any leftover sauce.

For an added nutritional boost, you might toss in some baby spinach or cherry tomatoes just before serving. This not only enhances color but also infuses the dish with extra layers of flavor and vitamins. The residual heat will wilt the spinach gently, preserving its nutrients while still offering a fresh touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and sauce separately. Store the shrimp in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove and add the shrimp with the cooked fettuccine to warm through, ensuring the shrimp remains tender.

The completed dish can be frozen, though the texture of the cream and shrimp may alter upon thawing. When freezing, I recommend separating the pasta and sauce, as this maintains quality better. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance. Just reheat the sauce gently when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

While it's not recommended to freeze cream-based dishes, you can freeze the pasta without the sauce. Simply reheat with fresh sauce later.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Chicken or scallops work wonderfully in this recipe, just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.