Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is bold, spicy, and loaded with flavor. Juicy seasoned shrimp are tossed with tender pasta in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce with a hint of lime to brighten everything up. It tastes like something from a restaurant, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz ziti (or penne)
- 1 1/4 lb large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp Weber Cajun Seasoning (divided)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (or chives), for garnish
- 1 lime
Equipment
- Deep skillet or sauté pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Strainer/colander
- Tramontina Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti (or penne) until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Shrimp
Toss the shrimp with 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes and cook until softened and slightly broken down. (You can peel the skins if you prefer a smoother sauce, but it’s optional.)
4. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
Stir well and let the sauce gently simmer until slightly thickened and creamy.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss until everything is fully coated in the sauce and heated through.
Let it simmer on low for a few minutes so the flavors combine.
6. Finish and Serve
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Optional Add-Ins
- Andouille sausage for extra smoky flavor
- Grilled steak for a surf-and-turf twist
- Spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
- Extra Parmesan for a richer sauce
Final Thoughts
This Cajun shrimp pasta is creamy, spicy, and packed with bold flavor in every bite. The Cajun seasoning, garlic, and lime create a perfect balance of heat and brightness, while the Parmesan adds richness that ties everything together. It’s a simple dish that feels like a weekend indulgence but is easy enough for a busy weeknight.


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