Description
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
“Juicy, spiced shrimp served over rich and creamy fettuccine Alfredo—this dish is packed with bold Cajun flavors!”
Ingredients
For the Cajun Shrimp:
1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra spice)
For the Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Cajun Shrimp
Toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and opaque. Remove from pan.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and optional Cajun seasoning.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thick and creamy.
Combine & Serve
Toss cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
Top with Cajun shrimp and garnish with fresh parsley.
A creamy, cheesy, and spicy pasta dish that’s perfect for date night or a comfort meal! Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, prep all ingredients: grate the Parmesan, mince the garlic, and pat the shrimp dry. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. While it heats, toss the shrimp in a bowl with olive oil and all listed Cajun spices. Cook the fettuccine until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter over medium-high and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink; transfer to a plate. In the same skillet, make the sauce: melt 2 tbsp butter, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then pour in cream. Bring to a gentle simmer before whisking in Parmesan until melted. If sauce is too thick, thin it with reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. Off the heat, toss the drained pasta directly into the sauce until coated. Finally, top with the cooked shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is best served immediately. Plate it in warm bowls to keep it hot. For a balanced meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio.
How-to Summary
To make Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo: 1) Cook and drain fettuccine, saving some pasta water. 2) Season and sauté shrimp until cooked, then set aside. 3) In the same pan, make Alfredo sauce with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. 4) Toss pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water if needed. 5) Top pasta with shrimp and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? It’s not recommended, as they can become rubbery when reheated in the sauce. Raw shrimp absorbs the seasoning better and stays juicier.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Omit the optional Cajun seasoning from the sauce and use a mild or salt-free Cajun blend for the shrimp.
What’s a substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, use half-and-half, but be careful not to boil it vigorously or the sauce may separate.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The components are best fresh. The sauce can thicken upon sitting; reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough. They cook quickly and continue to cook slightly off the heat.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to boiling cream, which can cause it to clump. Always simmer the cream first, then remove from heat before whisking in the cheese.
- Not salting the pasta water adequately, as this is the primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo masterfully combines comforting richness with bold, spicy flavor. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for a special occasion or whenever you crave a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy the delicious fusion of Cajun zest and Italian creaminess in every bite.