This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is creamy, spicy, and oh-so-delicious! Juicy shrimp are coated in zesty Cajun seasoning and tossed with fettuccine in a rich, cheesy sauce.
I love how this dish is both comforting and exciting! It’s perfect for nice dinners or just to treat yourself on a weeknight. Plus, who can resist that creamy goodness? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This dish shines with fettuccine’s wide noodles, perfect for holding creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can use spaghetti or even gluten-free pasta to suit your taste.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for a meaty bite. If you’re allergic or don’t like shrimp, consider chicken or even sautéed mushrooms as a tasty substitute.
Cajun Seasoning: The seasoning gives it that iconic spice. If you don’t have it, mix paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne for a homemade blend. Adjust to your spice preference!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream like coconut milk, but the flavor may differ slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds richness. In a pinch, use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option that still adds umami.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined; this saves prep time!
- Heat the oil until it’s hot, but not smoking, before adding shrimp.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from heat immediately as they continue cooking after being removed from the skillet.
This approach will keep your shrimp tender and juicy every time!
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Alfredo Sauce?
Thickening your Alfredo sauce perfectly can be a balancing act. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- After adding heavy cream, keep it on medium heat and let it simmer gently, not boil.
- Add cheese gradually, stirring well each time until completely melted. This helps achieve a creamy consistency.
- If it’s still too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
These steps will give you a luscious sauce every time!
Enjoy cooking this flavorful Cajun Shrimp Alfredo and feel free to customize it to your taste!
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp Alfredo takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In about 10 minutes, you can have everything prepped, and then it’s just about 20 minutes to cook. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by cooking the fettuccine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (not too soft!). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated for a full flavor burst.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet you used for the shrimp, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. When the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly, and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes—this will help it thicken up nicely. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked fettuccine to the creamy sauce and toss it gently to coat the pasta evenly. Then, return the cooked Cajun shrimp to the skillet and mix everything gently.
7. Finish and Serve:
Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve your delightful Cajun Shrimp Alfredo immediately, garnished with extra parsley if you like. Enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
And there you have it! A simple yet impressive Cajun Shrimp Alfredo that’s sure to be a hit at your dining table!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat and add the cooked shrimp and pasta just before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or a little water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve with Cajun Shrimp Alfredo?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Garlic bread is also a great option for soaking up the leftovers!