Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Discover the mouthwatering Spicy Cajun Shrimp Delight Pasta, a perfect blend of heat and creaminess that brings Cajun flavors to your table. This easy-to-follow recipe combines succulent shrimp, tender fettuccine, and a rich, velvety sauce flavored with Cajun spices and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Dive into a flavorful culinary adventure with every bite you take!

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Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine pasta

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly, saving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use. Set the drained pasta aside.

Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper, sautéing for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Make the Sauce: Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing it to a simmer. Let the broth reduce slightly for about 3 minutes. Afterward, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your liking.

Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine and sautéed shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together. Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot, indulging in the delightful combination of spicy and creamy flavors of this Cajun shrimp pasta!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, drizzling a little extra cream sauce on top for visual appeal. Add a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh touch and an extra burst of flavor.