How to Make Blackened Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Sauce
If you’re craving a dish that combines bold flavors with creamy richness, this Blackened Shrimp Pasta is the perfect recipe. It’s the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy shrimp coated in Cajun seasoning with fettuccine pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This dish is impressive enough for a special occasion yet simple and quick enough to make on a busy weeknight. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to satisfy anyone who loves a mix of spicy seafood and creamy pasta. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the fettuccine. Cook until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is done, drain the water and set the pasta aside. This ensures the pasta is ready to be tossed into the creamy sauce without any delay.
Pro Tip: Reserve a small amount of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s thickness later if needed.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
While the pasta is boiling, it’s time to prepare the shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and mix well, making sure each piece is fully seasoned.
The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy flavor, transforming ordinary shrimp into something with a delightful kick.
Pro Tip: If you prefer less heat, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half. For extra spice, you can add more or even sprinkle in some cayenne pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are blackened and fully cooked through. You’re looking for a slightly charred exterior and a juicy, tender interior.
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Pro Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet for cooking the shrimp. It helps achieve a perfect blackened crust, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet (to retain all those flavorful bits from cooking the shrimp), reduce the heat to medium. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter, then add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it.
Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir constantly. As the cream begins to simmer, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth. This keeps the sauce creamy without compromising the flavor.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta in the Sauce
Once your sauce is rich and creamy, lower the heat and add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta, ensuring every strand is coated in the luxurious sauce. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, absorbing all the flavors.
Step 6: Add the Shrimp
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the blackened shrimp back into the skillet, gently mixing them with the creamy pasta. Let the shrimp heat through for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish by garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch that cuts through the richness of the sauce and complements the spicy shrimp.
Serve your Blackened Shrimp Pasta immediately while it’s still warm. The result is a delightful combination of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Blackened Shrimp Pasta
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp if available. If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Watch the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooking them can result in a tough, rubbery texture.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a milder version. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes at the end if you want to control the heat.
- Thinning the Sauce: If the cream sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a bit of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Switch Up the Pasta: While fettuccine is a classic choice for this dish, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like linguine, spaghetti, or even penne.
FAQs About Blackened Shrimp Pasta
1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. However, since pre-cooked shrimp won’t need much time to heat up, add them to the pasta toward the end, tossing them with the sauce and pasta until just warmed through. Be mindful not to overcook them.
2. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also use dairy-free cheese alternatives, like nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan, to replace the Parmesan cheese.
3. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency.
4. Can I Freeze This Dish?
While the shrimp can be frozen, creamy sauces tend to change texture when frozen. If you want to freeze this dish, consider freezing the shrimp and pasta separately from the sauce, then making the sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve.
5. What Can I Serve With Blackened Shrimp Pasta?
This dish is rich and filling, but if you want to serve it with sides, consider pairing it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These options provide a balance of flavors and textures to complement the creamy pasta.
Conclusion
This Blackened Shrimp Pasta is a quick yet indulgent meal that combines spicy Cajun shrimp with a luxurious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or for impressing guests at a gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to enjoy. Whether you love a hint of spice or crave creamy pasta, this recipe strikes the perfect balance. Try it tonight and savor every bite!