Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that brings a taste of the South to your table. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a zesty Cajun sauce with a rich Alfredo sauce over fettuccine.
Let’s just say, it’s hard not to love a dish that combines shrimp and creamy goodness! I like to top it with a sprinkle of parsley for a dash of color and a hint of freshness. Yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine: This flat pasta is perfect for holding creamy sauces. If you don’t have fettuccine, spaghetti or penne works well too. Even gluten-free pasta can be a great alternative!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best, but if you can only find medium ones, that’s okay! You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just remember to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a spicy kick! If you like it milder, try using half the amount or substitute with paprika and a pinch of cayenne for similar flavors.
Heavy Cream: It creates that rich sauce. You could use half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Cajun Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky! They cook quickly, so you’ll want to pay attention. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Heat oil over medium-high heat. It should be hot, but not smoking.
- Add shrimp and spread them in a single layer in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding, as they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
Tip: Remove them from the skillet right away to avoid overcooking. They can become rubbery if left too long!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For Seasoning and Sauce:
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For Taste:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and 20 minutes cooking. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes—until it’s al dente. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the raw shrimp with Cajun seasoning until they’re evenly coated. This will add a nice spicy flavor to your shrimp!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, stirring it around for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir the mixture gently until it begins to simmer.
5. Add the Cheese:
Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Feel free to add salt and black pepper to taste to adjust the flavor.
6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Now, add the drained fettuccine to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to ensure the noodles are fully coated. Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing them gently into the pasta and sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Cajun Shrimp Alfredo immediately! Garnish each plate with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like more heat, consider adding extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also use a spicier variety of Cajun seasoning to amp up the flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a light yet creamy alternative, consider using a combination of Greek yogurt and broth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess.