This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a standout weeknight dinner thanks to its bold flavor, creamy texture, and quick cooking time.
Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines the richness of heavy cream and parmesan with the spicy depth of Cajun seasoning—creating a dish that’s comforting yet exciting.
25-Minute Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot – For cooking the pasta
- 1 Deep Skillet – For sautéing shrimp and preparing the sauce
- 1 Garlic Press or Knife – For mincing garlic
- 1 Grater – For parmesan cheese
- 1 Measuring Spoon Set – For precise spice measurements
- 1 Colander – For draining the pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning divided (adjust to taste depending on spice/salt level)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
- Salted water for boiling pasta
- Reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set it aside, covered to stay warm.
- Season and Sear the Shrimp: Place the cleaned shrimp in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to coat evenly. Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and slightly saucy.
- Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, then stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine Everything Together: Return the shrimp and cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce and everything is warmed through. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Cajun Seasoning Variations: Brands vary greatly in spice and salt levels. If you’re using a particularly salty or spicy blend, start with half the amount and adjust as needed to taste.
- Pasta Swaps: You can easily substitute penne with similar pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini—just ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the sauce.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to sauté vegetables like sliced bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus with the garlic and tomatoes to add more nutrition and color.
- Cream Substitute: For a slightly lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may be thinner.
- Make it a Meal Prep: This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Shrimp, the star protein here, is low in calories but high in lean protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients like selenium and B12, making this meal satisfying without being overly heavy.
While it’s not low-carb, the fiber from whole grain or alternative pasta (if used) and the option to add vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus can boost its nutritional profile.
This pasta is also easily adaptable, meal-prep friendly, and ideal for busy families craving a homemade meal that feels indulgent but is simple to execute.
Whether you’re a novice cook or seasoned home chef, it’s an easy go-to for a creamy, spicy dinner fix.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Nonstick Deep Skillet
Perfect for sautéing shrimp and simmering sauces, a deep skillet prevents sticking and ensures even heat distribution. A versatile must-have for stir-fries, pan sauces, and one-pot meals.
Large Pot with Lid
Essential for boiling pasta, this pot allows ample room for noodles to cook evenly without clumping. Great for soups, stews, and batch cooking.
Fine Grater
Used for freshly grating parmesan, it enhances flavor and texture. Also ideal for zesting citrus or grating garlic and nutmeg—multipurpose and compact.
Garlic Press
For quickly mincing garlic, a press saves time and effort, giving a stronger, more even flavor. A key tool for recipes with sautéed aromatics.
Measuring Spoons
Accurate seasoning is key in recipes using bold spices like Cajun seasoning. A quality set helps you dial in flavor perfectly and is indispensable for baking and cooking.
Chef’s Secrets for Best Results
For a dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, the key to perfection lies in small but impactful details.
First, always use raw shrimp rather than pre-cooked to get that ideal sear and deeper flavor infusion from the Cajun seasoning.
Searing the shrimp quickly over medium-high heat locks in moisture and creates a beautiful golden crust.
When it comes to the Cajun seasoning, taste as you go—some blends are spicier or saltier than others, so adjusting to suit your preferences is essential.
For the creamy sauce, make sure not to let the heat get too high once the cream is added—gentle simmering helps it thicken without breaking.
And always reserve a bit of pasta water; it’s a game-changer for adjusting sauce texture and ensuring it clings perfectly to the pasta.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate the Meal
This Cajun shrimp pasta is a full-flavored main dish, but you can elevate it further with smart sides.
A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness that balances the rich, creamy sauce.
If you’re craving a little crunch, toasted garlic bread or a warm baguette works beautifully for mopping up every bit of sauce.
For a heartier spread, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
And don’t forget the garnishes—an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh parsley leaves brighten the dish both visually and in flavor.
Storage Tips for Fresh Flavor
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it also stores well for future meals.
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life—microwaving it without added moisture can cause the sauce to thicken or separate.
We don’t recommend freezing this dish, as creamy sauces can often turn grainy after thawing.
If you plan to meal-prep, keep the shrimp and sauce separate from the pasta until ready to serve for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of searing.
2. Is there a way to make it lighter?
Absolutely. Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce, though the consistency will be thinner.
3. Can I make it spicier?
Definitely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce if you enjoy more heat.
4. What type of pasta works best?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best to hold onto the sauce and mix well with the shrimp.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini all pair wonderfully. Sauté them after the garlic and before adding the cream for best results.
