Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the kind of comfort food that brings a bold, spicy kick with every creamy, savory bite. This easy weeknight dinner pairs tender shrimp coated in zesty Cajun spices with al dente pasta and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving something indulgent, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes with restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
Perfect Heat – Homemade Cajun seasoning gives the ideal balance of spice and flavor.
Ultra Creamy Sauce – Rich cream and Parmesan coat the pasta beautifully.
Versatile – Use your favorite pasta or swap the shrimp for chicken or scallops.
Customizable Spice – Easily adjust the heat level to your taste.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon kosher salt (for pasta water)
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails removed)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-ins:

Bell peppers (sliced)
Diced tomatoes
Spinach or kale
Andouille sausage (for extra Cajun flavor)

Instructions

Prep the Pasta Water
Bring a large pot of salted water (with 1 tablespoon kosher salt) to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and olive oil until evenly coated.
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp in a single layer for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and lightly crisped. Transfer to a plate.
Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits. Let it bubble around the edges. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything
Add drained pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated. If needed, thin the sauce with reserved pasta water (a tablespoon at a time).
Taste & Adjust
Add more Cajun seasoning or salt if desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 429
Protein: 24g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 255mg
Sodium: 1919mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Calcium: 247mg
Iron: 2.7mg

Tips & Variations

Less Spicy? Use less cayenne or choose a low-sodium Cajun blend.
Cheese Matters: Always use fresh Parmesan from a block for best melting.
Protein Swaps: Try chicken breast, scallops, or tofu instead of shrimp.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for dairy-free.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne works great, but fettuccine, linguine, or gluten-free pasta are all fine substitutes.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a medium kick. Adjust Cajun seasoning to control heat.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, but start with less — it’s often saltier than homemade blends.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegan Parmesan.
What sides go well with Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
Try garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted broccoli.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers reheat well. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.