Cajun Shrimp Alfredo

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Fettuccine Pasta: This wide pasta works great for holding the creamy sauce. You can swap it for linguine or penne if you prefer. Zoodles (zucchini noodles) are a fun low-carb option!

Shrimp: Large shrimp brings a lovely texture. If seafood isn’t your thing, try chicken breast or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

Cajun Seasoning: You can buy it pre-made or mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount or use a milder seasoning.

Heavy Cream & Milk: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Almond milk works too, but the sauce will be less creamy.

How Can I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Alfredo Sauce?

Getting that smooth Alfredo sauce takes a bit of care. Here are some simple steps to nail it:

• Start by melting the butter and sautéing garlic just until fragrant. Don’t brown the garlic to avoid bitterness.
• When adding cream and milk, do it slowly while stirring. This helps combine everything smoothly.
• Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts better than pre-grated cheese and gives a richer flavor.
• If the sauce is too thick, splash in that reserved pasta water little by little until you reach your desired consistency.

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta and Shrimp:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

For the Cajun Flavor:

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cream Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Garnish:

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and about 20 minutes making the creamy sauce and combining everything. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but remember to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the drained pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

While the pasta cooks, take the large shrimp and toss them in a bowl with the Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. This will give them a delicious flavor punch!

3. Cook the Shrimp:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

4. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

5. Combine Cream and Milk:

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whole milk into the skillet. Stir continuously while bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step is crucial for a rich, creamy sauce.

6. Thicken the Sauce:

Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add in a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

7. Season the Sauce:

Give the Alfredo sauce a taste, and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, letting it melt into the sauce for extra richness.

8. Combine Everything:

Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing everything together so that the pasta is well coated in that creamy goodness.

9. Plate and Garnish:

Now, it’s time to plate your delicious Cajun Shrimp Alfredo! Divide the creamy pasta among plates and top each serving with the cooked shrimp.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Cajun Shrimp Alfredo!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or quick-thaw them by placing them in a sealed bag and soaking in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help regain creaminess.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. The Cajun seasoning will still add a wonderful flavor to the dish!