Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce and a kick of Cajun spice. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- Salt, for boiling
For the Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or seafood broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cajun Shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
- Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and heat through.
5. Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy Cajun shrimp pasta!
Tips:
- Adjusting Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste, or use a milder seasoning blend if you prefer less heat.
- Adding Vegetables: For added flavor and nutrition, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta.
- Make-Ahead: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the sauce and shrimp ahead of time. Reheat gently before combining with pasta.
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful and indulgent dish that’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy!
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