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Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta in Just 25 Minutes

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a quick and creamy dish that combines flavorful seasoning with tender shrimp for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Feel free to switch it up with your favorite pasta shape.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Shrimp Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with butter for more flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Using salted butter is fine but adjust salt levels as needed.
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic Fresh, minced garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Store-bought or homemade works beautifully.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Canned crushed tomatoes can also be used.
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Substitute with low-fat milk for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Fresh cheese will elevate the dish.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley Makes the dish visually appealing.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. If you're using frozen shrimp, place them under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes until they're fully thawed.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add in the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  3. Season the thawed shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning, tossing to evenly coat. In a deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
  5. Stir in one can of diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Allow to bubble lightly and reduce heat to medium-low.
  6. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream while stirring continuously. Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted, about 3-4 minutes. If it's too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss until well coated in the sauce.
  8. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the pasta before serving. Plate up and enjoy your cozy, creamy dish!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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