Name: Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color); 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice

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Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a spicy, creamy, and utterly comforting dish that brings bold Southern flavor to the dinner table. I love the way the juicy shrimp are coated in smoky Cajun seasoning and tossed with tender pasta in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for when I want something indulgent but easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a complete, restaurant-quality meal I can make in under 30 minutes. The Cajun seasoning gives the dish a perfect balance of spice and smokiness, while the cream sauce mellows everything out and ties it all together. Whether I make it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish always satisfies.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil or butter
Garlic (minced)
Onion (chopped)
Bell peppers (sliced, any color)
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes or lemon juice for added heat and brightness

Directions

I season the shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning and a little salt, then set them aside while I cook the pasta.
I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. I reserve a little pasta water, then drain the rest.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until just cooked. I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same pan, I add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until soft and fragrant.
I reduce the heat and pour in the cream, stirring to combine. I let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
I return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. I toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
I taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Around 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap the shrimp for chicken or sausage for a different protein, or use a mix of both. For a lighter version, I use evaporated milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. I’ve also made a dairy-free version with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for richness. If I want extra heat, I add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. I avoid overcooking the shrimp when reheating so they stay tender. I don’t recommend freezing this dish—the cream sauce tends to separate.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp works best?

I use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work well—just make sure they’re dry before cooking.

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes. I reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes if I want a milder flavor.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Fettuccine and linguine are great for holding the creamy sauce, but penne and rigatoni work just as well if I prefer short pasta.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. I often throw in spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to add more color and texture.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but I only warm them briefly in the sauce to avoid making them rubbery. I skip the searing step.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is one of my favorite easy meals to whip up when I’m craving bold flavors and creamy comfort. The mix of spicy shrimp, tender pasta, and rich sauce makes every bite unforgettable. Whether I’m cooking for family or just treating myself, this dish brings the perfect mix of heat, heartiness, and indulgence.