This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish that packs a punch! Juicy shrimp are tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce and served over fettuccine for a fun twist on a classic meal.
You’ll love how the spicy Cajun seasoning adds a zing. Whenever I make this, I can’t help but twirl my pasta with a smile – it’s just that good! 🍤❤️
It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, who can resist a big bowl of creamy pasta? I know I can’t!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This flat pasta is great for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you’re out of fettuccine, you can use other pasta like penne or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for this dish. If you’re allergic or prefer a different protein, consider using chicken or even tofu as a substitute. Just make sure they are cooked through!
Cajun Seasoning: This seasoning mix adds kick to the dish. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne. If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs can also add flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses can work well too!
How Do You Perfectly Cook Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp correctly is key to making this dish delicious. You want them perfectly pink and tender, not rubbery. Here’s a simple method:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. Make sure it’s hot before adding shrimp!
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque.
- As soon as they’re done, remove them from the skillet to avoid overcooking.
Timing is everything here! Keep an eye on them and don’t walk away. Perfectly cooked shrimp will elevate your dish!
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for some color and texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes on preparation and about 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, easy, and delicious, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Make sure every shrimp is coated well for a nice flavor kick!
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
5. Make it Creamy:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the other tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for a minute or so.
6. Add the Cheese:
Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained fettuccine and diced tomatoes (if you’re using them) into the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly in that delicious Alfredo sauce.
8. Bring it All Together:
Finally, add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Toss gently to combine and heat everything through for just a minute.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cajun Shrimp Alfredo immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and add extra Parmesan if you like. Dive in and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them first. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add extra Cajun seasoning to the shrimp or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce. For even more spice, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the final dish!
What Types of Pasta Work Besides Fettuccine?
If you don’t have fettuccine, don’t worry! You can use other pasta like penne, linguine, or even macaroni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You might also want to add some plant-based protein like tofu for extra texture and flavor.
