Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Quick Cajun shrimp pasta with creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned shrimp on wooden table

Quick Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Ultimate 20-Minute Weeknight Recipe That Will Transform Your Dinner Game

This Quick Cajun Shrimp Pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 20 minutes! Perfectly seasoned Gulf shrimp swimming in a rich, creamy sauce with bold Louisiana spices. A weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.

  • Total Time: 25
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/2 teaspoon thyme

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) Salt and black pepper to taste

12 oz penne or linguine pasta

3 tablespoons butter

1 large bell pepper, sliced (red or green)

1/2 large onion, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)`,

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add bell pepper and onion, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cooked pasta to the sauce along with the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together, adding pasta water if needed for consistency. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley before serving immediately.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add a splash of cream when reheating. Make-ahead: Prep ingredients up to 4 hours ahead for quick assembly. Substitutions: Use coconut cream for dairy-free, zucchini noodles for keto, or whole wheat pasta for healthier option. Pro tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should form a C-shape when done, not a tight circle.

  • Author: chefgreeny
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6
  • Sodium: 780
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 12
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 48
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 32
  • Cholesterol: 185

Keywords: cajun shrimp pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meals, seafood pasta, creamy pasta, spicy shrimp, 20 minute meals, easy recipes