Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano

why make this recipe

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano is a dish that brings excitement to your dinner table. This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the rich creaminess of a homemade sauce, making it a perfect comfort food. The large shrimp add a delightful sea taste, while the pasta delivers a satisfying base. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat. Plus, it’s visually stunning when plated, so it’s great for impressing guests!

how to make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional heat boost)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Directions:

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and save 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. This trick creates that silky, restaurant-quality sauce.
2. Sear the Shrimp: Toss shrimp in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
3. Build That Bold Cream Sauce: Lower heat, melt butter, then sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in cream and stir for 2–3 minutes. Add Parmesan and chili flakes, stirring until thickened.
4. Toss Pasta & Shrimp Together: Add cooked pasta and seared shrimp into the sauce. Splash in reserved pasta water and mix until smooth.
5. Plate with Flair: Twirl pasta into a high stack, top with extra shrimp, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.

how to serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano

Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano immediately after plating. You can offer extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for those who want more flavor. This dish looks amazing garnished with freshly chopped parsley, which adds a pop of color.

how to store Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to eat it within 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

tips to make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano

• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and should be just pink and tender.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. You can start with less and add more if you like it spicier.
• For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative.

variation

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. These additions can enhance the flavor and add more nutrition to the meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and dried before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make a substitute using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you enjoy, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

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