Creamy Garlic Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich and spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine with succulent shrimp and creamy pasta. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

For the Cajun Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine work well)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cajun seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together all the Cajun seasoning ingredients. Season the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are well coated. Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking.
3. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has melted.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, followed by the diced tomatoes and green onions. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, and if you like, a little more grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your creamy garlic Cajun shrimp pasta!