Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Recipe Tested & Approved by Mia Hartwell
Every recipe is developed, cooked, and tested by Mia in a real home kitchen using everyday ingredients to ensure reliable, repeatable results.
Cajun-spiced shrimp and bell peppers in a creamy, smoky sauce tossed with pasta. A bold, comforting one-skillet dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
By Mia HartwellUpdated September 13, 2025
Developed using tested cooking methods — cook to the temperatures given and adjust times to your equipment.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Smoky, creamy, and boldly spiced
- 36g of protein per serving
- One skillet plus a quick pot of pasta
- Ready in about 30 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
32 min totalServes 4
Nutrition (per serving)
Values are estimates. See our disclaimer for details.
- Calories
- 620kcal
- Protein
- 36g
- Carbs
- 58g
- Fat
- 26g
- Fiber
- 4g
- Sugar
- 5g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- 2
Toss the shrimp with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and cook the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until pink. Remove.
- 3
Add the bell peppers to the pan and cook 3 to 4 minutes, then the garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning for 1 minute.
- 4
Pour in the cream and broth, scraping up the browned bits, and simmer 3 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the Parmesan until smooth, then add the pasta and shrimp, tossing and loosening with pasta water.
- 6
Season to taste and garnish with green onion.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Toast the Cajun seasoning on the shrimp for the best flavor.
- Do not overcook the shrimp. Sear them first, then add them back at the end.
- Cajun blends vary in salt, so taste before adding more.
- Keep the cream at a gentle simmer so the sauce stays smooth.
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How to Cook Cajun Shrimp Pasta
New to this dish? Follow along with the detailed guide below — we break down each stage so you get perfect results the very first time.
Spice and sear the shrimp
Coat the shrimp in Cajun seasoning and sear them just until pink, then remove them. Toasting the spice on the shrimp builds smoky, blackened flavor before the cream goes in.
Build the cream sauce
Cook the peppers and garlic, then deglaze with cream and broth and simmer gently. Parmesan adds body, and a pinch more Cajun seasoning sharpens the flavor.
Toss and adjust
Add the pasta and shrimp back to the sauce, loosening with pasta water until it clings. Taste before salting, since Cajun blends are often salty, then finish with green onion.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk. Cream-based pasta is best enjoyed fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This cajun shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or your favorite grain. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is it?+
Moderately, depending on your Cajun blend. Use less seasoning or a salt-free blend to control the heat.
Can I make it lighter?+
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a thinner but still creamy sauce.
Can I use frozen shrimp?+
Yes. Thaw and pat dry first so they sear properly.
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