Cajun Creamy Shrimp Pasta

This Cajun Creamy Shrimp Pasta recipe is a flavorful and creamy dish made with seasoned shrimp, gluten-free spaghetti, and a rich, cheesy sauce. The combination of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic creates a bold, savory flavor, while the creamy parmesan and mozzarella sauce adds a deliciously smooth texture. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, this recipe is ideal for those looking for a gluten-free pasta dish with seafood. Whether you’re craving Cajun flavors or a creamy shrimp pasta, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a simple, restaurant-quality meal that can be made at home in no time!

Ingredients:

• 12 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 oz gluten-free spaghetti
• ¾ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon parsley
• 1 teaspoon OliveNation sweet smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon OliveNation garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon dry shallots (heaping)

For the Sauce:

• ¾ cup parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¾ cup tomato sauce
• 1 pint heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Costabile garlic olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Boil the gluten-free spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, Cajun seasoning, and parsley. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly with the spices.
3. Heat the garlic olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
4. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the pan. Once the butter melts, add the dry shallots and cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and heavy cream. Stir well, then add the parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
6. Gently stir in the cooked pasta, followed by the shrimp. Toss everything together until well combined. Serve and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Creamy Shrimp Pasta is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and bold Cajun spices. The combination of shrimp, a rich creamy sauce, and gluten-free pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or a flavorful seafood dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and delivers a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Tips

• For extra heat: If you like your food spicier, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance, then just cook the pasta and combine everything when ready to serve.
• Sauce thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or water.

Variations and Substitutions

• Pasta alternatives: Use regular pasta or other gluten-free pasta shapes, such as penne or fusilli.
• Dairy-free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Protein options: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast, sausage, or even tofu for a different protein option.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.

What can I use instead of gluten-free spaghetti?
Any pasta of your choice will work. Just follow the cooking instructions for the type of pasta you’re using.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove before mixing with the pasta and shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy shrimp pasta with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread to balance out the richness of the dish. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh parsley on top just before serving. This dish also pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy!