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Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 1 review

A flavorful Cajun Shrimp Pasta combining perfectly seasoned shrimp with a creamy, spicy tomato sauce served over tender fettuccine. This dish balances the heat of Cajun spices with the richness of heavy cream and fire-roasted tomatoes for a quick and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces uncooked fettuccine

Shrimp

  • 1 pound medium peeled and deveined shrimp (16/20 count)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil, for tossing
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun Creole seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Sauce and Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup finely diced roasted red peppers (about 4 ounces by weight), from a jar
  • 6 cloves garlic, pressed through a garlic press
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5 ounce / 411 gram) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients: Gather and prepare all ingredients as listed to ensure a smooth cooking process.
  2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and keep warm.
  3. Season Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp with 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil, Cajun Creole seasoning, granulated garlic, cayenne pepper if using, and a pinch of salt. Toss well to evenly coat the shrimp.
  4. Sear Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 2 minutes on the first side until golden and crusty. Flip and cook for another minute until crusted on the other side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  5. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add butter and 2 tablespoons oil. Add diced onion and roasted red peppers, stirring to combine. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and turns slightly golden.
  6. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the pressed garlic and red pepper flakes if using, then add tomato paste. Cook while stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Simmer Sauce: Pour in crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce gently simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
  8. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce along with half of the shrimp and half of the chopped parsley. Gently toss to combine all components evenly.
  9. Serve: If serving directly from the skillet, top the pasta with the remaining shrimp and parsley. Alternatively, transfer pasta to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining shrimp and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Use fresh parsley for a bright herbaceous finish and the best flavor.
  • For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but sauce will be less rich.
  • Ensure shrimp is peeled and deveined for the best texture and taste.
  • Cast-iron skillet helps achieve a nice sear on the shrimp but a heavy-bottom skillet will work well too.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/cajun-shrimp-pasta-recipe/