Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
A quick and easy pasta dish featuring shrimp in a creamy Cajun sauce.
Ingredients
- 500 g pasta of your choice
- 500 g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons crushed fresh garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (from boiling pasta)
- Optional garnish fresh parsley or oregano
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, half of the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, chili flakes, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat.
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 1 minute on each side until golden brown. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter. Add crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add remaining spices and toast for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached. Let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season sauce with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta directly into the pan and toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with parsley or oregano if desired.
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Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.