Description
A creamy and flavorful Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a rich Cajun cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish combines a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and aromatic elements making it a delightful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 3/4 pound medium shrimp, thawed and peeled
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 small onion, chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 8 large basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, add butter and olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion for about 5 minutes until lightly browned to develop extra flavor.
- Add Mustard, Tomatoes, and Garlic: Stir in the Dijon mustard, julienned sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute to release their aroma.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the Cajun seasoning. Cook the mixture for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for about 5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque and the sauce has reduced to your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Stir in torn basil leaves, then toss the drained pasta into the skillet to coat with the sauce thoroughly. Serve immediately topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the Cajun seasoning according to your preference.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk-cream mixture for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less thick.
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor and texture.
- To save time, use pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped onions.
- Cajun seasoning can be made at home or store-bought; adjust salt levels accordingly if yours is salted.
