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Homemade Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe photo

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is bursting with flavor! Creamy sauce meets spicy shrimp and vibrant veggies for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 8 ounces whole wheat linguine noodles
  • 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)
  • 1.5 cups nonfat milk
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 4 ounces light cream cheese softened to room temperature

Equipment

  • 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

Method
 

Cajun Shrimp Pasta Cooking Guide
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.