Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory, all wrapped up in one delicious dish. With tender shrimp coated in Cajun seasoning, a creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine, this meal is ready in just 30 minutes and will become your new weeknight favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta delivers big flavor in a short amount of time. The Cajun seasoning gives the shrimp just the right amount of spice, while the creamy Alfredo sauce made with freshly grated Parmesan coats each bite perfectly. This dish is rich, comforting, and packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving something indulgent or need a quick, easy dinner, this pasta hits all the right notes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled, tails removed, patted dry)

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 3 tablespoons flour

• 2 cups milk (see note)

• 8 ounces fettuccine noodles

• 2 cups reserved pasta water

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (see note)

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Fettuccine: Cook the fettuccine noodles according to the package directions. Drain, reserving 2 cups of pasta water. Toss the noodles with a little olive oil and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook for 4-7 minutes, until the shrimp are opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a dish and cover to keep warm.

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk and reserved pasta water.

4. Finish the Sauce: Add the Parmesan cheese and salt. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if needed.

5. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine noodles to the skillet and return the shrimp to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Use Different Pasta: While fettuccine works best for this dish, you can substitute with other pasta like penne, linguine, or spaghetti.

• Make It Spicier: For a bolder kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

• Creamy Variations: If you want a richer sauce, use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish does not freeze well due to the creamy sauce.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to help loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water from affecting the dish.

Can I make this without Cajun seasoning?

Yes, if you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Parmesan is traditional, you can try other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce it or add a bit more flour (1/2 tablespoon at a time) to thicken it.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating, as they can become rubbery.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can cook the shrimp and make the sauce ahead of time, then combine everything when ready to serve.

Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a mild-to-medium spice level due to the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less seasoning based on your preference.

What can I serve with this dish?

This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any pasta shape you like will work, though thicker pasta shapes like fettuccine help hold the creamy sauce better.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that’s both easy to make and packed with deliciousness. With the perfect balance of creamy Alfredo sauce and a spicy Cajun kick, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it to your family or making it for a quick dinner, this pasta is guaranteed to impress.

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