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: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

I absolutely adore this Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta—it’s a dish that never fails to impress! The blend of creamy sauce with vibrant Cajun spices creates a flavor explosion that keeps me coming back for more. Cooking this pasta is not only quick but also a fantastic way to elevate an ordinary weeknight dinner into something special. The shrimp cooks perfectly in just a few minutes, and the whole meal is ready in under 30 minutes. You’ll love the rich flavors and the beautiful presentation that makes this dish perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:06:28.765Z

When I first tried Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta at a local restaurant, I was blown away by the combination of flavors. I knew that I had to try to recreate it at home. After a few attempts, I found the perfect balance of spices and cream—adding a touch of garlic and a hint of lemon really elevates the dish. The key is not to overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by the delicious sauce.

One important tip I learned is to use a good pasta, like fettuccine or linguine, which really holds the creamy sauce well. I also like to finish it with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. The entire experience of preparing and enjoying this meal has become one of my favorite culinary adventures!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The creamy sauce is perfectly balanced with Cajun spices
Fresh shrimp adds a delightful touch of sea flavor
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is where the magic of this Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta truly happens. Start by ensuring your heat is reduced to medium before adding the heavy cream; this helps to maintain a smooth consistency without boiling, which can cause the cream to separate. Stir continuously to blend the flavors together, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly to a glossy finish. You're aiming for a creamy texture that generously coats the back of a spoon.

Incorporating Parmesan cheese not only adds depth to the flavor but also contributes to the sauce's richness. Grate your cheese fresh for the best results, as pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that may affect melting. Add the cheese gradually, stirring until it’s fully melted and integrated into the cream. If your sauce is too thick, a splash of pasta water can help achieve your desired consistency.

Perfecting the Shrimp

Cooking the shrimp perfectly is crucial for this dish. When you add the shrimp to the skillet, make sure your oil is hot enough—it should shimmer but not smoke. Cook them for just 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on them until they turn pink and opaque. If you want, you can experiment with different types of shrimp; larger shrimp provide a meaty texture, while smaller ones can absorb more flavor from the spices.

For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp briefly in Cajun seasoning and a splash of lemon juice before cooking. This can enhance the taste and infuse even more depth into the dish. If you prefer a milder option, adjust your Cajun seasoning based on your heat tolerance and preference; sometimes a little less can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta.

Pasta Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to add more spices or vegetables to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic, and Cajun seasoning, cooking for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your meal!

This dish is best served right away, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try using spicy Cajun sausage along with the shrimp. Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the sauce and shrimp in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat until warmed through before tossing it with the freshly cooked pasta. This method not only saves time but ensures that your fettuccine remains al dente and freshly made.

While the pasta can be cooked and stored, it’s best to avoid mixing it with the sauce until serving to prevent it from soaking up all the creaminess. To reheat, a quick sauté with a touch of olive oil and a splash of water can bring the pasta back to life without compromising texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Cajun Cream Shrimp Pasta, serve it in a large, shallow pasta bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. The vibrant green color contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, making it visually appealing. For an additional layer of flavor and crunch, consider topping it with some crispy fried shallots or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish and cut through the richness.

Pair this hearty pasta with a simple garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cleanse the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience. For wine lovers, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works wonderfully as it complements the richness of the shrimp and cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

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

→ What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder as a substitute.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make a lighter version of this dish?

You can use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.