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Bold Flavor Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Close-up of a white bowl filled with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bold Flavor, topped with seasoned shrimp and parsley.
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A rich and spicy pasta dish featuring shrimp coated in a bold Cajun-seasoned cream sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound fettuccine or linguine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (use a bold blend)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
  2. Season the shrimp lightly with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux base.
  6. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream, remaining 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add the seasoned shrimp to the sauce. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning once, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Do not overcook.
  9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  10. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  11. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For the boldest flavor, make your own Cajun seasoning blend or select a commercial blend known for high spice content.
  • If you prefer a richer sauce, substitute half of the chicken broth with half-and-half.
  • You can substitute chicken or smoked sausage for the shrimp if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://epicureempire.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-pasta-bold-flavor/