If you’re looking for a pasta dish that combines bold flavors with a touch of spice, this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta recipe is a must-try. Made with succulent shrimp, a Cajun cream sauce, and al dente pasta, this dish has all the flavors of New Orleans in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this delicious recipe is a huge hit with the whole family. And with simple ingredients that you can easily find at the grocery store, it’s a flavorful dinner option that's both easy and satisfying.
16ozcooked linguine or fettuccineor penne pasta for a twist
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Instructions
Cook the linguine
Cook the linguine until al dente and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Season and Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with minced garlic, oregano, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss until the shrimp are well-coated, then set aside for a couple of minutes to let the flavors develop.
Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sauté shrimp for 1 minute on each side until they are pink and tender. Add butter until melted. Be careful not to overcook; juicy shrimp is key for this pasta dish. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set aside in an airtight container.
Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In a blender, add milk, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
Add blended mixture to the same skillet you cooked the shrimp in on medium heat. Add the garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, oregano, and smoked paprika.
Let the sauce simmer on medium heat for a couple of minutes until it thickens.
Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
Add the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
Toss the pasta in the sauce until coated. Stir everything together for a creamy, Cajun-inspired pasta that’s full of bold flavors.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a touch of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this Cajun creamy shrimp pasta recipe with family and friends!