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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

The Crispy Chef
This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta is packed with bold flavors, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for busy weeknights. With spicy shrimp, colorful veggies, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce, it’s a one-pot dinner that's customizable and delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 610 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups/spoons

Ingredients
  

  • For Cajun Seasoning:
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • For the Pasta:
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Cook Pasta:
  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
  • Season Shrimp:
  • Pat shrimp dry, toss with 1–2 tsp of Cajun seasoning.
  • Cook Shrimp:
  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Sear shrimp 2 mins per side until pink and slightly crispy. Remove from skillet.
  • Sauté Veggies:
  • Add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté peppers and onions 3–4 mins until soft. Add garlic, cook 30 seconds.
  • Make Sauce:
  • Sprinkle more Cajun seasoning. Deglaze with chicken broth, add cream, simmer 3–4 mins.
  • Finish Dish:
  • Add parmesan, stir until melted. Add pasta, shrimp, toss to coat. Adjust consistency with pasta water if needed.
  • Serve:
  • Top with fresh parsley and more parmesan. Serve hot!

Notes

Use store-bought Cajun seasoning in a pinch—just check salt content.
Sub shrimp with chicken or andouille sausage for variety.
Half-and-half or coconut milk can replace cream for a lighter version.
Great as leftovers—just add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.

Nutrition

Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 35gFat: 33g
Keyword Cajun shrimp pasta
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