Description
A bold and creamy shrimp pasta dish infused with smoky Cajun spices and rich garlic-Parmesan sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
½ cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) pasta water, then drain.
Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
Add heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer gently.
Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until thickened.
Return shrimp to skillet. Add pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Finish with lemon juice and parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
Do not overcook shrimp to maintain tenderness.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes