One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and the convenience of cooking everything in one pot. This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave a spicy, comforting meal without the hassle of multiple pans. Succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a luscious, spiced cream sauce come together effortlessly, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This dish is a staple for good reasons. First, it’s insanely easy and quick—perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal fast. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick without overpowering the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Using just one pot means less cleanup, which is always a win. Plus, the creamy sauce wraps everything in a cozy, indulgent layer of flavor, turning simple ingredients into something special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this pasta hits all the right notes: creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying.

What You’ll Gather

• 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large deep skillet or wide pot – to cook the shrimp, veggies, and pasta all in one vessel
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring without scratching your cookware
• Sharp knife and cutting board – to prep your shrimp and vegetables
• Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate seasoning and liquid measurements
• Colander (optional) – if you prefer to rinse your shrimp or drain pasta slightly

Step-by-Step: One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in your pot or skillet. Toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pot and set aside—don’t overcook as they will finish cooking later in the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the veggies and toast the spices for about 1 minute—this step unlocks their aroma and depth.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the linguine or fettuccine pasta. Stir gently to combine, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the liquid and thicken the sauce as it cooks.

Step 6: Finish With Shrimp and Tomatoes

Once the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy, stir in the cooked shrimp and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the shrimp is heated through and tomatoes are just softened.

Step 7: Taste and Garnish

Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Swap shrimp for chicken sausage to create a twist like the Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage.
• Add a splash of white wine along with the broth for a richer sauce.
• Incorporate fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
• Use smoked sausage or andouille if you want a heartier, smoky flavor.
• For a citrusy twist, swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, inspired by the Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery and tough. Remove them early and add back later.
• Not stirring enough: Pasta can stick to the bottom if unattended. Stir occasionally for even cooking and to prevent burning.
• Using too little liquid: Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in broth and cream to cook evenly and create the sauce.
• Skipping seasoning: Cajun seasoning is the star here. Use it generously but balance with salt and pepper to avoid overpowering the dish.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or microwave to avoid drying out. Freezing is possible, but the texture of shrimp and pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze before adding shrimp, then cook shrimp fresh when ready to serve.

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine works beautifully, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times slightly as shapes vary in thickness.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but add pre-cooked shrimp at the very end of the cooking time just to warm through. Overcooking pre-cooked shrimp will make them rubbery.

How spicy is this dish? Can I make it milder?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning and optional cayenne pepper. To make it milder, reduce or omit the cayenne and use a smaller amount of Cajun seasoning. You can always add more to taste later.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will slightly change the flavor but keeps the sauce creamy and delicious.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Explore the zesty and flavorful Chipotle Lime Shrimp Penne for another shrimp pasta adventure.
• Try the bright and fresh Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne for a lighter, citrusy twist on shrimp pasta.
• For sausage lovers, the Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage combines two favorites in one dish.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. It’s comforting, full of bold flavors, and easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for entertaining. The creamy sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp and pasta is a combination you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Give it a try, and soon this recipe will be a permanent fixture in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every bite!

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