Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy and spicy dish that’s sure to warm you up! It features shrimp coated in zesty Cajun spices, mixed with rich fettuccine and a smooth Alfredo sauce.
What’s not to love about a creamy bowl of pasta topped with flavorful shrimp? It’s the perfect excuse to bring out your inner chef, and trust me, it’s even better with garlic bread on the side! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide, flat pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you don’t have fettuccine, you can use linguine or even penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Shrimp: Fresh, raw shrimp is best for this dish. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works fine too—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before using. You can also substitute chicken if you’re not a fan of shrimp.
Cajun Seasoning: This mix adds a kick to your dish! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make a quick substitute with cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust the heat according to your taste!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best since it melts smoothly. For a similar flavor, consider using Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if Parmesan is unavailable.
How Do You Get Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Making a creamy Alfredo sauce is simpler than you might think! The key is to use the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s how to ensure your sauce turns out smooth every time:
- Start by melting the butter in the skillet before adding garlic. This step helps to build flavor and aroma.
- When you pour in the heavy cream, do it slowly while stirring. This prevents the sauce from separating and ensures that everything emulsifies together.
- Let the sauce simmer gently. Avoid boiling it, as that can cause the cream to curdle.
- Make sure to continuously stir in the Parmesan until it’s completely melted. This creates a beautifully creamy texture.
- Finally, if your sauce seems too thick, splash in a little pasta cooking water to thin it to your desired consistency.
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
For The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking shrimp)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: bread slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare. It includes 10 minutes for cooking the pasta, plus about 15 minutes to prepare the shrimp and make the creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, but keep a little pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Season the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and toss to coat them evenly.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re opaque and slightly charred. Take the shrimp off the heat and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Sauce and Pasta:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Then, toss in the cooked fettuccine, coating it well with the Alfredo sauce.
6. Serve:
Plate a generous portion of the coated pasta, then top with the Cajun shrimp. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately, along with some delicious slices of crusty bread if you like.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo! 🌶️🍤
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own substitute by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the proportions based on your preferred spice level!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little splash of cream or pasta water and heat gently on the stove to revive the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While the shrimp is best cooked fresh, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on low heat and toss in freshly cooked pasta and shrimp just before serving for the best results!
