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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is an easy and flavorful weeknight dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp seasoned with robust Cajun spices are tossed with penne pasta and smothered in a rich, cheesy cream sauce made with half and half and Parmesan. The perfect balance of spice and creaminess makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp and Pasta

  • 1 pound raw shrimp (453.592 grams), thawed and deveined
  • 8 ounces penne pasta (100 grams), cooked according to package instructions
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided

Cream Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups half and half (354.882 ml)
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (33 grams), shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Diced tomatoes
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the raw shrimp, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning. Toss well to ensure the shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Roux: Using a clean skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, watch carefully to avoid burning.
  5. Prepare the Cream Sauce: Whisk in the all-purpose flour to the butter and garlic, creating a base for the sauce. Slowly whisk in the half and half in small increments (about 2 tablespoons at a time), letting each addition absorb before adding more, to form a smooth roux.
  6. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines well into the sauce. Mix in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Stir in the cooked penne pasta and return the shrimp to the skillet, mixing everything thoroughly to coat with the creamy Cajun sauce.
  8. Serve: Plate the pasta and shrimp mixture. Garnish with optional diced tomatoes and fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of half and half slightly or add a bit more flour for thicker consistency.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your heat preference.
  • Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops cooking and prevents it from sticking.
  • Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American Cajun

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