Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano is a perfect dish for anyone who loves a blend of spice and comfort. This recipe combines the richness of creamy sauce with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and fresh shrimp. It’s quick to make, which makes it great for a weeknight dinner or a fancy meal for guests. Plus, the lemon juice adds a refreshing touch that balances out the creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional heat boost)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Directions:
- Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and save 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- Sear the Shrimp: Toss shrimp in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear shrimp in a hot skillet with olive oil for 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
- Build That Bold Cream Sauce: Lower heat, melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant, pour in cream, and stir for 2–3 minutes. Add Parmesan and chili flakes.
- Toss Pasta & Shrimp Together: Add cooked pasta and seared shrimp into sauce and splash in pasta water.
- Plate with Flair: Twirl pasta into a stack, top with extra shrimp, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano
Serve this pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. You can also provide lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty kick. Pair it with a simple salad or crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
How to Store Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they only need 1–2 minutes on each side.
- If you like it spicier, don’t skip the chili flakes!
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Variation
You can switch up the ingredients by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. You could also replace the shrimp with chicken or sausage for a different take on the dish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine or penne.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta instead.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and then toss it with your cooked pasta and shrimp right before serving.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Volcano
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delightful blend of spicy and creamy, this Cajun shrimp pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional heat boost)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and save 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- Toss shrimp in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear shrimp in a hot skillet with olive oil for 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
- Lower heat, melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant, pour in cream, and stir for 2–3 minutes. Add Parmesan and chili flakes.
- Add cooked pasta and seared shrimp into sauce and splash in pasta water.
- Twirl pasta into a stack, top with extra shrimp, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Pair with a salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing, Cooking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
