Description
A vibrant and creamy Cajun shrimp pasta that is quick to prepare and perfect for impressing guests.
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)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and save 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- 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.
- 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.
- Toss Pasta & Shrimp Together: Add cooked pasta and seared shrimp into the sauce. Splash in reserved pasta water and mix until smooth.
- Plate with Flair: Twirl pasta into a high stack, top with extra shrimp, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges on the side. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Cajun