Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with succulent shrimp and a creamy, dreamy sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions. With a medley of colorful bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of spice, it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to master! So, let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure, and I promise you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser, and for good reason! First, the combination of shrimp and pasta is always a hit, appealing to seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. The Cajun seasoning adds a warm, spicy kick that elevates the entire dish, making it exciting with each bite. The vibrant colors from the bell peppers not only make the dish pop visually but also provide a range of nutrients. When you serve this dish, you’re bound to get compliments from family and friends, and they’ll be asking for the recipe before they even finish their plates!

What You’ll Need

• 8 ounces whole wheat linguine noodles (or pasta of your choice)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus additional to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
• 1 medium orange or yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
• 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
• 8 ounces sliced baby Bella (cremini) mushrooms
• 1 small bunch green onions, thinly sliced, divided
• 14 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained (1 can)
• 1 ½ cups nonfat milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened to room temperature

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Skillet or frying pan: To sauté vegetables and shrimp.
• Whisk: For mixing the cornstarch and milk smoothly.
• Cutting board and knife: For slicing veggies and shrimp prep.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

From Start to Finish: Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your whole wheat linguine noodles or pasta of choice. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and half of the green onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the nonfat milk and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, remaining Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese

Add the softened light cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts and combines with the sauce, creating a creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Cajun Shrimp Pasta in bowls, garnished with the remaining sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious, homemade meal!

International Equivalents

• 8 ounces = 225 grams
• 1 pound = 450 grams
• 1 tablespoon = 15 milliliters
• 1 teaspoon = 5 milliliters
• 14 ounces = 400 grams

Notes on Ingredients

Feel free to customize this Cajun Shrimp Pasta to suit your taste preferences. You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. The bell peppers can also be swapped for other vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. The nonfat milk can be replaced with a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version, and the light cream cheese can be substituted with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it still tastes great the next day!

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like oregano and thyme. Adjust to taste!

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add more of your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the nutrition and flavor.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Cajun Shrimp Pasta is great for meal prep. Just store the portions in separate containers, and it will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Garlic Pasta
• Vegetable Stir-Fry
• Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
• Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

Ready to Cook?

If you’re ready to spice up your dinner routine, this Cajun Shrimp Pasta is calling your name! With its rich flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every flavorful bite, and don’t forget to share your culinary creation with friends and family. Happy cooking!