Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy and dreamy pasta dish that packs a flavorful punch. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a spicy Cajun seasoning and mixed into a rich Alfredo sauce.
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner night. I love making it when I want comfort food that feels a little fancy! Just add a salad, and you’ve got a meal that impresses!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This dish shines with fettuccine, as its flat shape holds the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have fettuccine, feel free to use spaghetti or penne. Gluten-free pasta also works great!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. You can substitute with chicken or even firm fish, like salmon, if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Adjusting the spice level is easy; add more or less based on your taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as thick. If lactose is an issue, coconut cream is a fantastic dairy-free alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking the shrimp perfectly can make or break this dish. The goal is juicy and tender shrimp, so here’s how to achieve that:
- Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed if they were frozen.
- Heat the oil in your skillet over medium-high heat; this prevents overcooking.
- Add shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as they need room to cook evenly.
- Cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them as soon as they are cooked to avoid rubbery texture.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
The Alfredo sauce is the heart of this dish. Here are some tips to make it creamy and delicious:
- Start by melting the butter and sautéing the garlic until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
- When adding the cream, let it simmer gently. This helps thicken the sauce and enhance flavor.
- Whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually to ensure it melts smoothly. Grate your cheese fresh for the best results.
- Always taste and adjust salt and black pepper to your liking!
Enjoy making your Cajun Shrimp Alfredo—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Alfredo can be made in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and another 20 minutes preparing the sauce and shrimp. It’s quick and easy to whip up for a satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. This will give the shrimp that wonderful spicy kick!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Combine for Flavor:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and then the heavy cream. Stir to combine everything well and let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken up a little.
6. Add the Cheese:
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste your sauce and season with salt and black pepper to suit your preference.
7. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the drained fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat every piece with the delicious Alfredo sauce.
8. Fold in the Shrimp:
Gently return the Cajun shrimp to the skillet, folding them in with the pasta and sauce. Make sure everything is well combined and heated through.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is mixed, you can remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for that nice pop of color. Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works beautifully with Alfredo sauce, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, linguine, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love extra heat, try adding more Cajun seasoning or include a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during the cooking process for an added kick!
Can I Store Leftovers, and How Should I Reheat Them?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid sticking!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the ratios to your taste to create a homemade version that suits your preference!