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Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a culinary delight that brings together the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting texture of pasta. This dish has garnered attention for its bold, spicy notes balanced by a creamy sauce, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts and home cooks alike. The marriage of succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked fettuccine creates a meal that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta fits the bill perfectly.

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Discover the bold and savory flavors of Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with this easy-to-follow recipe that brings together succulent shrimp and creamy fettuccine in a vibrant Cajun-inspired sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines fresh ingredients like garlic, red bell peppers, and aromatic spices to create a delicious meal that's sure to impress. Enjoy a taste of Cajun culture while indulging in a comforting pasta dinner that’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings. Get ready to embark on a flavorful culinary journey!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

    Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.

        Cook the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

          Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and let simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

            Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked fettuccine and half of the parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with the remaining parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings