Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning Blend
- 4 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store bought or homemade)
- 3 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Pasta & Shrimp
- 1 lb penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 lb shrimp (fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined)
Sauce & Garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (or salted butter)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Parmesan cheese (additional, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Thaw Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them by running cold water over them or letting them thaw in the refrigerator to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook Pasta: While preparing the shrimp and sauce, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Add salt to the boiling pasta water. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for possible sauce adjustment.
- Season and Sauté Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from pan and cover to keep warm.
- Make Sauce Base: In the same pan, do not clean out the juices. Over medium heat, add butter, minced garlic, and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in diced tomatoes and sauté for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Simmer Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Slowly pour in heavy whipping cream while stirring to combine. Add grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce thickness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Cajun shrimp pasta.
Notes
- Thaw shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent a cold center.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- You can use canned crushed tomatoes as an alternative to diced tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning blend for desired spice level.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
