This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish with a spicy kick! Juicy shrimp are cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich, velvety sauce that coats every noodle deliciously.
Who can resist that perfect mix of pasta, shrimp, and a bit of spice? I love making this for cozy nights—it always feels like a little treat for the taste buds! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: The wide, flat shape of fettuccine soaks up the sauce beautifully. If you want something different, try linguine or even whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.
Shrimp: Large shrimp is perfect here, but if you’re a fan of sustainability, consider using shrimp from local sources or choose frozen shrimp that are sustainably harvested.
Cajun Seasoning: This is key for that bold flavor! If you don’t have it, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a homemade version. Adjust the amounts to your taste!
Heavy Cream: This provides richness to the sauce. If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half and half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk, but it may alter the creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives the best texture and flavor. You could substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, but avoid pre-grated options as they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect sauce consistency.
How Can I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right is crucial for a delightful texture. Overcooked shrimp can be tough and rubbery. Follow these tips:
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking.
- Heat your pan well before adding shrimp. A hot pan creates a nice sear.
- Cook in batches if you’re making a lot. This avoids overcrowding and ensures they cook evenly.
- Watch for color! Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (more for shrimp)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Alfredo will take about 30 minutes to prepare. Allow 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and shrimp, and around 15-20 minutes for preparing the creamy sauce. You’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
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 until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. This will give them a lovely flavor!
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring as it simmers gently for about 3-5 minutes to thicken a little.
5. Add the Cheese:
Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Combine with Fettuccine:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked fettuccine directly to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to ensure every noodle is coated nicely.
7. Plate and Serve:
To serve, spoon the Alfredo pasta onto plates and top with the delicious Cajun shrimp. For the finishing touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika, if you like a bit of extra spice.
8. Enjoy:
Dig in right away while it’s hot and creamy—enjoy your flavorful Cajun Shrimp Alfredo!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can swap it for other pasta types like linguine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you love extra heat, you can add more Cajun seasoning to the shrimp or include red pepper flakes in the sauce. A pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor!
How Can 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 or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to help regain the creamy texture.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker option.