Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines plump shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, sautéed until just pink, and folded into tender rotini tossed in a rich, Parmesan-infused cream sauce. The blend of garlic, butter, and just the right amount of heat is balanced by the smoothness of heavy cream. This dish is easy to prepare—on the table in under half an hour—making it an excellent choice for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Adjust the Cajun seasoning for your preferred spice level and enjoy restaurant-quality comfort from your own kitchen.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:36:13 GMT
A bowl of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. Save
A bowl of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. | lilicooks.com

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta brings restaurant magic right to your kitchen with bold flavors and a rich sauce that pleases everyone at the table. The Cajun-spiced shrimp deliver a gentle heat and pair perfectly with tender pasta in a silky cream sauce. When I am craving comfort food with a bit of excitement, this is my weeknight fix that never disappoints.

The first time I threw this together it instantly became my husband’s favorite pasta. He always asks for extra Parmesan on top which makes the dish feel even more special.

Ingredients

  • Large shrimp: fresh or frozen the bigger size helps them stay juicy and not overcooked
  • Rotini pasta: or any short noodle that catches the creamy sauce well
  • Cajun seasoning: find a quality blend with layers of flavor not just heat I sometimes mix my own for control
  • Heavy cream: gives lush richness use a good dairy brand for best taste
  • Butter: provides richness and browns beautifully with the shrimp
  • Olive oil: helps sear the shrimp evenly and lifts flavors from the pan
  • Minced garlic: bring out real garlic over jarred for the sharpest flavor
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty nutty depth freshly grated is best for easy melting
  • Salt and pepper: to taste quality sea salt enhances the other seasonings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat dry the shrimp on paper towels then season generously with Cajun seasoning salt and pepper. Dry shrimp sear better and take on more flavor.
Sear the Shrimp:
Heat butter and olive oil in a wide skillet over medium high. Place shrimp in a single layer letting them cook undisturbed for one or two minutes each side. You want a golden crust and opaque center. Transfer to a plate to keep them tender.
Cook the Garlic:
If the skillet looks dry add a dab more butter. Drop in the minced garlic and gently stir for about thirty seconds. Once fragrant do not let it brown or it gets bitter.
Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the pan these give body and flavor. Simmer gently for three or four minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle in the Parmesan while stirring so it melts smoothly into the sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce is creamy and coats the back of a spoon.
Boil the Pasta:
In a separate pot bring water to boil with a handful of salt. Cook your pasta until just al dente and drain but do not rinse. Reserving a splash of the pasta water helps adjust your sauce if needed.
Combine:
Tip the cooked pasta into the sauce stirring to coat well. Gently fold in the seared shrimp taking care not to overmix as you want the shrimp plump and coated not broken up.
Serve:
Plate immediately with extra Parmesan and maybe fresh parsley for a pop of green. This dish tastes best hot right from the stove.
A plate of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. Save
A plate of Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. | lilicooks.com

Shrimp has always been my brother’s favorite so when I make this for family gatherings everyone dives in before I can even set down the serving spoon. I never have leftovers.

Storage Tips

Leftovers stay good for up to three days in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. For the best texture reheat gently over low heat adding a splash of cream or milk if needed. Do not microwave too long or the shrimp can toughen.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use penne or fusilli if rotini is not handy. Chicken works well instead of shrimp just increase the cook time a bit. Light cream will work but the sauce will be less rich yet still tasty. If you do not eat Parmesan try Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta shines with a simple green salad and crusty bread to wipe up extra sauce. I sometimes add roasted broccoli or lemony asparagus on the side for balance. On special nights a glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully.

A bowl of creamy cajun shrimp pasta. Save
A bowl of creamy cajun shrimp pasta. | lilicooks.com

Cajun Pasta Roots

Cajun cuisine is all about bold seasonings and simple hearty ingredients. This modern pasta twist channels classic bayou flavors using available pantry staples. My version blends the indulgence of Italian cream sauce with southern spice for a new tradition in our kitchen.

Recipe FAQs

→ How spicy is Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

The level of heat depends on the amount and brand of Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust it for mild or extra spicy results.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely, rotini works well for holding sauce, but penne, fettuccine, or linguine are also great choices for this dish.

→ What type of shrimp works best?

Large, peeled and deveined shrimp are ideal. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work well. Always pat dry before seasoning.

→ How can I make the sauce creamier?

Use full-fat heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan. A splash of pasta water can help emulsify the sauce if needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Juicy shrimp and rotini in velvety Cajun cream sauce bring bold flavor and comfort to your table in just 30 minutes.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
15 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: Cajun

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 8 oz rotini pasta
03 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
04 1 cup heavy cream
05 2 tbsp butter
06 1 tbsp olive oil
07 3 cloves garlic, minced
08 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps

Step 01

Pat the shrimp dry and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.

Step 03

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.

Step 04

Lower the heat, pour in heavy cream, and stir to deglaze the skillet. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 05

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 06

Boil rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain without rinsing.

Step 07

Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. Fold in the shrimp.

Step 08

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips

  1. Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference.
  2. Add a splash of pasta water or broth if the sauce is too thick.
  3. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Required Tools

  • Skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Shellfish
  • Dairy

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 569
  • Fats: 37 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Proteins: 35 g