This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy treat packed with flavor. It’s made with juicy shrimp, pasta, and a zesty Cajun sauce that gives it a perfect kick!
Honestly, who can resist creamy pasta? I love how quick it comes together, making it a go-to for busy nights when I crave something delicious but easy! 🍤❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This pasta is perfect for creamy sauces. If you don’t have fettuccine, try linguine or spaghetti instead! Both will do nicely.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal, but you could use medium shrimp or even scallops if you’re feeling adventurous. Just make sure they are fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
Cajun Seasoning: You can make your own blend with spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and black pepper if you want a homemade touch. Adjust spice levels to your preference!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, replace it with half-and-half or whole milk. Be aware that it may not be as rich, but it still tastes great!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best for texture and flavor. In a pinch, you could use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese you have on hand.
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy Alfredo sauce is an art! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat. Don’t let it burn!
- Add garlic and sauté gently to release its flavor without browning it—you want that fresh taste.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Patience is key here; let it thicken for 3-4 minutes while stirring regularly.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese. This helps to avoid clumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
- Finally, season to taste! If needed, adjust with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning for that extra kick.
With these tips, your Cajun Shrimp Alfredo will be creamy, flavorful, and a meal everyone will love! Enjoy cooking! 🍽️
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For The Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning in a bowl. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated for that flavorful kick!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and are cooked through. After cooking, 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 and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. Then, pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. It should look delicious! Taste it and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Then, carefully return the Cajun shrimp to the skillet and mix gently to combine all the flavors.
7. Serve It Up:
Transfer your Cajun Shrimp Alfredo to serving plates or a large bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and perfectly balanced Cajun Shrimp Alfredo! It’s sure to impress anyone at the table. 🍽️❤️
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. It’s best to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes if you’re short on time.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning the shrimp. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce if you like an extra kick!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Keep the sauce and pasta the same, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian Alfredo dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat while stirring, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.