If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and a touch of spice, then this Cajun Shrimp Pasta is just what you need! It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend feast. The combination of succulent shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy sauce over whole wheat linguine creates a delightful meal that the whole family will love. Let’s dive in and create this flavorful dish together!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out because it balances the heat of Cajun seasoning with the creamy texture of the sauce, creating a symphony of flavors. Using whole wheat linguine not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. The fire-roasted tomatoes provide a rich depth, and the variety of bell peppers gives it a beautiful color and crunch. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
The Essentials
To make this delectable Cajun Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces whole wheat linguine noodles or pasta of your choice
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus additional to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
- 1 medium orange or yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
- 8 ounces sliced baby bella (cremini) mushrooms
- 1 small bunch green onions, thinly sliced, divided
- 14 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained (1 can)
- 1 ½ cups nonfat milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened to room temperature
Tools of the Trade
To prepare this dish, gather the following tools:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sautéing
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements
- Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- Colander for draining pasta
Cajun Shrimp Pasta Cooking Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat linguine noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure the shrimp are well-coated with the spices.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in the green onions (reserve some for garnishing) and cook for an additional minute.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the drained fire-roasted diced tomatoes, the remaining Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir in the nonfat milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Mix the cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth, then add it to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with the reserved green onions. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy texture of this delightful dish!
What to Use Instead
If you’re looking to make substitutions or adjustments, consider the following options:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat linguine.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a lighter flavor.
- Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Using cold cream cheese: Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending into the sauce.
- Skipping the seasoning: The Cajun seasoning is crucial for flavor, so don’t skimp on it!
Shelf Life & Storage
The Cajun Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened. Avoid freezing, as the cream cheese may separate and alter the texture of the dish.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water or a bit more nonfat milk until you reach your desired consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.
What should I serve with Cajun Shrimp Pasta?
A fresh garden salad or some garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish. For a twist, consider serving it alongside Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo With Blackened Peppers!
Ready to Cook?
With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this Cajun Shrimp Pasta will surely become a favorite in your household. It’s the perfect blend of spice and comfort, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!
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Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat linguine noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Season the Shrimp - In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure the shrimp are well-coated with the spices.
- Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables - In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in the green onions (reserve some for garnishing) and cook for an additional minute.
- Step 4: Cook the Shrimp - Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 5: Create the Sauce - In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the drained fire-roasted diced tomatoes, the remaining Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir in the nonfat milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Mix the cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth, then add it to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Combine Everything - Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with the reserved green onions. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy texture of this delightful dish!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat linguine.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a lighter flavor.
