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 pasta of choice (fettuccine or linguine work well); 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making creamy Cajun shrimp pasta on busy weeknights because it's quick, easy, and packed with incredible flavors. The creamy sauce, with its rich and zesty Cajun spices, coats the pasta beautifully, creating a satisfying dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. In just 30 minutes, I can mix together plump shrimp and a creamy sauce for a meal that feels indulgent, yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:45:36.997Z

Creating this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta in my kitchen has become a delightful tradition. I love the balance of flavors between the spices and the creaminess of the sauce, which can transform plain pasta into a luxurious meal. One key tip I discovered is to let the shrimp marinate in the Cajun seasoning for a few minutes before cooking, enhancing the flavor profile significantly.

During one of my cooking experiments, I added a splash of lemon juice at the end, and it brightened the dish beautifully. It’s those little tweaks that make every bite memorable. Make sure to serve it right away for the best experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that perfectly complements the spicy flavors
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests
Heartwarming comfort food that brings everyone to the table

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta. I recommend using fettuccine or linguine, as their flat surfaces are excellent at holding the rich sauce. Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water; it can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick when combined.

You can also experiment with gluten-free pasta or whole grain options if preferred. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For a lighter version, consider using zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash, but make sure to cook them briefly to avoid sogginess.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and cooking it properly makes all the difference. Start by sautéing the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to infuse the oil with flavor without burning it. Then, add the cherry tomatoes; they should soften and burst slightly, releasing their juices. This process not only adds flavor but also helps create a natural sweetness that balances the Cajun spices.

Adding the heavy cream and chicken broth creates a luscious sauce. Make sure to let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. If you find your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine or linguine work well)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Ensure they’re evenly coated.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Enjoy your delicious creamy Cajun shrimp pasta hot!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more or less Cajun seasoning. For a touch of freshness, consider adding spinach or bell peppers in the sauce.

Variations and Add-ins

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a veggie boost, consider adding spinach or arugula when you mix in the shrimp and pasta. They will wilt just enough to offer a fresh contrast without overwhelming the dish. You can also switch it up with other proteins like chicken or even sausage, just adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.

If you enjoy more heat, adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish significantly. For more depth, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the sauce, which complements the Cajun spices wonderfully.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover creamy Cajun shrimp pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the sauce from thickening too much during storage, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately if possible. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creaminess.

Freezing this dish is not recommended due to the cream sauce, which can become grainy when defrosted. However, if you need to freeze, consider making the shrimp and sauce separately, freezing them for up to a month, and cooking fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter sauce.

→ Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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