Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff brings together the richness of classic stroganoff with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. This dish showcases plump shrimp seasoned to perfection, served on a bed of creamy pasta that makes every bite a delightful experience. The combination of spicy, smoky shrimp and a smooth, savory sauce is a mouthwatering meal that can brighten any dinner table.
Why We Love This Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff Recipe
This recipe stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The blackened shrimp offers a spicy kick and a charred, robust aroma that enhances the dish’s overall appeal. Adding Cajun seasoning brings warmth and depth, making it a comforting meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce, paired with the al dente pasta, results in a harmonious bite that delivers satisfaction with every forkful. Sharing this recipe with family and friends will surely impress—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients about Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or egg noodles)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff Directions
Begin your cooking adventure by boiling the pasta. Use a large pot to cook the pasta as directed on the package. Aim for an al dente texture that holds up well in the sauce. Once ready, drain it, and set aside.
Next, you’ll focus on the shrimp. Take the large shrimp and place them in a mixing bowl. Toss them with the Cajun seasoning until they are thoroughly coated. This seasoning is the star of your dish, adding heat and flavor.
Now, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sear the shrimp. Add the shrimp carefully, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should become blackened and opaque but not overcooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, letting them sauté together. You’ll want to stir occasionally until the onions are softened and fragrant. This process brings out the sweetness of the onions and the aroma of garlic.
With the onions and garlic ready, it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms. Stir them in and cook until they are browned and tender. The mushrooms add a delightful umami flavor and enhance the overall dish.
Creating the sauce is the next step. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring it well to combine everything. The mixture needs to simmer gently. As it heats up, flavors meld together, creating a luscious sauce.
Once the sauce thickens a bit, return the blackened shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the shrimp is enveloped in that creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta and mix well, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce. Finally, taste your dish, adding salt and pepper according to your preference.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
Serving Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is a joy because it looks as good as it tastes. Begin by plating generous portions of pasta on warm plates. Ensure the blackened shrimp is evenly distributed; you want each bite to feature both pasta and shrimp. A light sprinkling of chopped parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a touch of fresh flavor.
Consider pairing this meal with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette works wonderfully, balancing the richness of the stroganoff. Enjoy your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff as a fulfilling main, perfect for both a casual weeknight dinner and a more elegant gathering.
Expert Tips: Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
To maximize the deliciousness of your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff, here are some expert tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the shrimp, ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded. This allows all the shrimp to cook evenly and achieve that desirable blackened effect.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and mushrooms elevate this dish. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Tailor the Cajun seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less seasoning or choose a milder blend.
- Pasta Variations: While fettuccine and egg noodles are great, feel free to experiment with other types of pasta. Rigatoni or even gluten-free varieties can work well.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little broth or water to adjust the consistency before serving.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only looks appealing but can enhance the flavor profile—consider scallions or parsley for garnish.
How to Store Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is simple. Place any unused portion in an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the stroganoff on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken during storage.
Freezing this dish is also an option, but consider that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly. If you choose to freeze it, store the stroganoff in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation of Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
There are countless ways to personalize your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff to fit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations you might consider:
- Vegetable Addition: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to introduce additional colors and nutrients. These veggies can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic.
- Alternate Proteins: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, try this recipe with chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood for an exciting twist.
- Changing the Sauce: For a lighter alternative, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It will still provide creaminess without being overly rich.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs in the sauce for a unique touch, like dill or basil, to add an aromatic flavor profile.
- Spaghetti Squash: For a low-carb option, swap traditional pasta for spiralized veggies or use spaghetti squash to create a wholesome, guilt-free meal.
FAQ
What is Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is a fusion dish combining the classic creamy stroganoff sauce with seasoned, blackened shrimp. It features pasta mixed with bold flavors for a comforting meal.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking in Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
To prevent shrimp from overcooking, sear them for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and blackened. Remove them from the heat as soon as they are cooked through.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before seasoning and cooking to achieve the best flavor and texture.
What kind of pasta can I use in my Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
You can use various types of pasta, such as fettuccine, egg noodles, or even gluten-free options, depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers of Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the dish for up to three months, but the texture of the shrimp might alter slightly upon reheating.
Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or egg noodles) Use your preferred type of pasta.
Shrimp Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh shrimp recommended.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust amount for desired spice level.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For searing the shrimp.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced Any variety of mushroom.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a rich sauce.
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth Choose based on preference.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste Season to preference.
- Chopped parsley Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta as directed on the package until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, toss the large shrimp with Cajun seasoning until thoroughly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp carefully, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until shrimp are blackened and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Let mixture simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
- Return the blackened shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat. Add cooked pasta and mix well, allowing the pasta to absorb some sauce.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
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