Whenever I want something creamy, cozy and a little spicy without spending a long time in the kitchen, Cajun shrimp pasta always hits the spot. It has tender pasta, perfectly seasoned shrimp, a creamy Cajun sauce and just the right kick of heat. It tastes like a restaurant pasta bowl but it is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.

Why You Will Love This Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

• Quick and ready in under 30 minutes
• Creamy and flavorful with a mild or bold spice level
• Works with any shape of pasta
• You can add veggies, swap proteins or lighten it up
• It feels like comfort food but still fresh and balanced

Recipe Details

Servings: 2 to 3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 to 18 minutes
Total Time: about 30 minutes
Estimated Calories: around 640 to 700 per serving

(Calories vary depending on pasta type and amount of cream or cheese used.)

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 12 ounces medium or large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Pinch of salt and black pepper

For the Sauce and Pasta

• 8 ounces fettuccine or any pasta you like
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning extra
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional squeeze of lemon
• Optional chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water and drain.

2. Season and Cook the Shrimp

In a bowl toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat then cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce

In the same pan melt butter.
Add onions and sauté until soft then add garlic.
Pour in heavy cream and stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika and parmesan.
Simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
If it becomes too thick add a splash of pasta water.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss until coated.
Slide the shrimp back in and mix gently.
Taste and adjust seasoning then add a tiny squeeze of lemon if you like brightness.

5. Serve

Plate warm and top with extra parmesan and chopped parsley.

Tips and Tricks

• If you like extra creamy pasta add 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• For less spice reduce Cajun seasoning or add a splash of milk
• For more spice add chili flakes or cayenne
• You can use chicken or salmon instead of shrimp
• A handful of spinach or roasted tomatoes makes it even better
• Gluten free pasta works fine