Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta

Name: Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or linguine; Salt for boiling water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

I absolutely love making this Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta! The combination of succulent shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, and the kick of Cajun seasoning creates a dish that’s not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that it’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how well the spices complement the creaminess, creating a dish that will impress anyone at the table.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:06:27.576Z

When I first tried Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta at a local restaurant, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in each bite. I decided to recreate it at home, experimenting with different spices and cream ratios until I got it just right. One thing I discovered is that letting the shrimp marinate for a bit in the Cajun seasoning really enhances their flavor and makes them extra tender.

To keep the dish balanced, I recommend using a good-quality heavy cream to achieve that luscious texture. Toss in some fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness. It’s a dish I always look forward to, and I know you will love it too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The bold Cajun spices bring an exciting kick to the creamy pasta.
Succulent shrimp make this dish luxurious and filling.
Quick and easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights!

Mastering the Cajun Cream Sauce

The key to a rich Cajun cream sauce lies in the balance of flavors. Start by sautéing the garlic until it’s fragrant but not browned—around 30 seconds at medium heat will do it. This ensures that the garlic infuses the olive oil with its delicious flavor without becoming bitter. Once you add the heavy cream, keep the heat low to prevent it from boiling; you want it to thicken gently, resulting in a glossy texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.

When incorporating the Parmesan cheese, make sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and creaminess. As you stir it into the sauce, watch for a smooth and cohesive mixture. If the sauce thickens too much, you can always add a splash of pasta water to adjust the consistency, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta without becoming overly heavy.

Perfecting Your Shrimp

Selecting the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. Opt for large, fresh shrimp for best results, but if you're in a pinch, frozen shrimp will work well too. Just be sure to thaw them completely before seasoning. Coating shrimp in Cajun seasoning not only adds spice but also enhances their natural sweetness, creating a wonderful flavor profile that's integral to the sauce.

When cooking shrimp, heat your skillet until it’s hot, but be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches can help achieve that desirable caramelization without steaming them. You’ll know they’re perfectly done when they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes just 2-3 minutes per side—overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta experience:

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or linguine
Salt for boiling water

For the Cajun Cream Sauce

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them sit for about 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your tolerance for spice.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help revive the sauce's smooth texture, ensuring that it remains as delightful as when it was initially cooked.

While I don’t recommend freezing the finished dish due to the cream sauce’s nature, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately, then freeze them. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring them to freezer-safe bags. Thaw and reheat them separately when you're ready to enjoy them again.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The crunch and freshness of a salad can provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta. You might also toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition, which will enhance the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile.

For an added touch of flavor, I suggest sprinkling a little extra Cajun seasoning or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top right before serving. This will bring a bright pop that complements the richness of the sauce beautifully, making each bite a little more exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less creamy.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the shrimp with grilled vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers and use vegetable broth instead of cream.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

It's best to serve the sauce fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and vegetables in advance for quicker cooking.