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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a flavorful and comforting seafood pasta dish that perfectly balances the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the smooth and rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce, making it an ideal quick dinner option that feels both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 lb fresh or thawed shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • Reserved pasta water, as needed

Sauce and Aromatics

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: extra Parmesan cheese for topping
  • Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Peel and devein the shrimp if needed, then pat them dry. Measure out the Cajun seasoning, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan cheese. This preparation ensures a smooth cooking process.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water, and set aside.
  3. Season and Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, then sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, optionally topping with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges for added brightness.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp when possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • Cook shrimp quickly to keep them juicy and tender, avoiding rubberiness.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for smoother melting and richer flavor.
  • Add Cajun seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to balance spice and creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy Cajun shrimp alfredo pasta, seafood pasta, Cajun seasoning, Alfredo sauce, quick dinner, spicy creamy pasta

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-alfredo-pasta/