Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This easy one-pot wonder is on the table in less than 30 minutes from start to finish!

Cajun Shrimp Pasta has cajun spiced shrimp, bell peppers, and onions in a super simple creamy tomato sauce!

A Dutch oven of cajun shrimp pasta with cheese on top

Cajun shrimp pasta is a 30-minute meal.
It uses simple ingredients and a few spices, and it’s packed with flavor
The sauce is really easy to make and so delicious.
It’s versatile; add extra veggies or swap the shrimp for chicken or sausage.

Ingredients for cajun shrimp pasta on a sheetpan

What You’ll Need To Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp: Shrimp is the star of this recipe. Choose medium to large frozen or fresh shrimp that have been peeled and deveined with tails off. Thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.
Sausage: Any variety of smoked sausage works. If using a large sausage, cut the rounds into half moons.
Pasta: Penne pasta is the perfect pasta for the Cajun sauce to cling to, but fusilli, rotini, or other medium pasta shapes or even fettuccine.
Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers give the dish some flair. Onions add flavor.
Pasta Sauce: This simple sauce combines crushed tomatoes and heavy whipping cream with seasonings. A small can of drained diced diced tomatoes can also be added.

Favorite Cajun Seasoning Andy Roo’s. It’s packed with flavor and is less salty than most brands (and it’s made in Louisana).

If you don’t have Andy Roo’s, I’d suggest homemade cajun seasoning. If using a store-bought brand, taste it first, as some brands can be quite salty and oversalt the dish.

Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Other vegetables, such as mushrooms, can be added.

A Dutch oven with ingredients for cajun shrimp pasta

How to Make Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is one of those quick-to-make meals that delivers bold flavor.

Toss shrimp with Cajun Seasoning and garlic powder. Cook until pink.
In a Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook onion, peppers, and sausage.
Once softened, add crushed tomatoes, cream, and cajun seasoning. Simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
Stir in shrimp, pasta, and Parmesan cheese.

Serve with salad and garlic bread.

Tips For a Perfect Pasta Dish

Choose medium shrimp that are peeled and deveined to make this dish easy to prepare.
If peeling shrimp at home, cut across the top of the back to the tail. Pull the shell away from the shrimp by grabbing the legs. Pull toward the tail, and the entire shell, legs, and tail should come off easily.
Use bacon grease or butter in place of oil if desired.
Cook the pasta just to al dente (firm), and be sure to salt the water.

Leftovers

Store leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavor-packed 30-minute meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

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In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and garlic powder.
In a Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
While shrimp is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm). Drain well but do not rinse.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet and cook until the onion begins to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Add peppers and sausage if using, and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and remaining cajun seasoning. Simmer uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Add pasta, parmesan cheese, and shrimp with any juices. Stir until heated through, and the cheese is melted. Season with salt & pepper to taste.

Fresh parsley can be added for garnish.

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Dinner, Entree, Main Course, Pasta, Seafood

Cuisine American

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