This creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe is loaded with tender shrimp, smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, and the perfect amount of spice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it is an easy, filling dinner for any night of the week!
If you’re looking for a new quick and flavorful dinner option, try this easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe! You can’t go wrong with noodles and shrimp drenched in a delicious creamy sauce. It also comes together quickly with just 5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time.
he short cooking time means you don’t have to wait for the weekend to enjoy this gourmet meal! For busier weeknights, make the prep even easier by pre-chopping the veggies and purchasing fresh shrimp that are already peeled and deveined. If you’re looking for more easy pasta recipes, try my cajun chicken pasta, shrimp alfredo pasta, or tuscan chicken pasta.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Pasta
Shrimp
Cajun Seasoning
Garlic
Heavy Cream
Tomatoes
Parmesan Cheese
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and set aside, then drain the pasta well.
2. While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook, tossing occasionally, until they are pink and opaque, for 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the skillet to medium heat.
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds. Then, stir in the cream until combined.
5. Stir in the drained tomatoes.
6. Mix in the reserved pasta water and the remaining cajun seasoning.
7. Bring to a simmer and gradually stir in the cheese until melted. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, for about 2 minutes.
8. Add the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet and toss to coat completely in the sauce. Serve immediately with more cheese and garnish with parsley if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to restore the moisture or in the microwave until heated through. I don’t recommend freezing creamy cajun shrimp pasta as the sauce can separate when thawed.
What do I serve with this?
This hearty pasta dish is quite versatile. Enjoy it on its own or paired with simple sides like a green salad and roasted brussels sprouts. It is also delicious eaten with homemade breadsticks or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While I recommend a long cut of pasta for this dish because it holds the sauce well, you can also substitute it with penne, rotini, or medium shells. Or, feel free to swap for a gluten-free pasta for an allergy-friendly version.
How do I make this less spicy?
If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce the amount of cajun seasoning. Add it slowly to taste so you don’t accidentally make it too spicy. If you’re making your own seasoning, you can also omit the cayenne pepper from the mix to reduce the heat.
