Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the Pasta
- Cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente, then drain it and set it aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pasta, tossing to coat, which prevents it from sticking.
Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the peeled and deveined large shrimp dry with paper towels, then season them with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque; remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, then add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and 0.5 cup of chicken broth, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet with the Cajun cream sauce, then toss everything together until well combined.
- Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning. You can also add some sliced bell peppers or onions to the sauce for more vegetables.
