Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, rich and creamy, yet spicy enough to keep things exciting, then this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is exactly what you need. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp tossed in a luscious Alfredo sauce with just the right kick of Cajun seasoning, all wrapped up in tender fettuccine noodles. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality indulgence right into your kitchen with just a handful of ingredients and simple steps. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or impressing friends at your next gathering, this pasta is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and bold flavor. The creamy, cheesy sauce is decadently smooth and coats every strand of fettuccine, while the Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy depth that wakes up your taste buds. The shrimp are juicy and tender, making every bite satisfying. What’s more, this dish comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for weeknights or last-minute dinners. It’s also versatile — pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will rave about.

What You’ll Need

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Recommended Tools

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta perfectly.
• Skillet or large sauté pan – To cook the shrimp and sauce evenly.
• Tongs – To toss the pasta with the sauce efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.
• Grater – For freshly shredding Parmesan cheese.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well coated. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into the cream.

Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan and Season

Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is thick and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked fettuccine back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand of pasta. Then, fold the cooked Cajun shrimp into the pasta, distributing them evenly throughout the dish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the creamy Cajun shrimp Alfredo pasta to serving plates and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free sauce.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives made from almond or cashew bases.
• Swap grated Parmesan with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Use gluten-free fettuccine or pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas instead of traditional wheat pasta.

Steer Clear of These

• Avoid overcooking shrimp as they can become rubbery and tough.
• Do not use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese containing additives; freshly grated Parmesan melts better for a creamier sauce.
• Skip skipping the cream cheese — it’s key to the sauce’s silky texture.
• Don’t forget to reserve pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency without watering down the flavor.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid curdling. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce and shrimp texture may change upon thawing.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper searing and affect the sauce’s consistency.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate kick, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to suit your heat preference or opt for a milder blend if desired.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and sauce separately, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor. Reheat gently to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

What can I serve alongside this creamy pasta?

It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne for a complementary seafood pasta option. Garlic bread or a light bruschetta also make excellent side dishes.

Because You Liked This

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage – Another rich and flavorful pasta with a Cajun twist.
• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – Bright, zesty, and creamy shrimp pasta that’s a perfect alternative.

Final Bite

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta embodies indulgence with every forkful, marrying creamy richness with the lively spice of Cajun seasoning. It’s a quick and impressive dish that will satisfy your cravings and delight your dinner guests alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your culinary rotation. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and dive into a bowl of creamy, dreamy comfort tonight!

Share on Pinterest