Name: Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: New Orleans
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine pasta; 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 7 reviews

Get ready to fall head over heels for Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, a vibrant and comforting dish that effortlessly channels the excitement of New Orleans cuisine right into your kitchen. This recipe combines plump, Cajun-spiced shrimp with a luxurious Alfredo sauce, all nestled around glossy strands of fettuccine. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests without breaking a sweat, this pasta delivers a creamy, peppery kick that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you’ve tasted the perfect harmony of flavors and the ease of preparation, Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is bound to become your new go-to for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You might be surprised by how a handful of simple, quality ingredients blend together to create a restaurant-worthy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta. Each element not only brings its own flavor, but also helps create that dreamy, creamy texture and appealing color in every bite.

Fettuccine or linguine pasta: Long, flat noodles are ideal for holding on to every drop of that rich Alfredo sauce.
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish! Shrimp bring sweetness and succulent texture that soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully.
Cajun seasoning (divided): This bold, zesty blend wakes up every ingredient and infuses the sauce and shrimp with Southern flair.
Olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp until golden and juicy, and adding subtle richness.
Garlic, minced: A must for deep, aromatic flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
Unsalted butter: Melts into the pan, giving the Alfredo sauce its silken foundation.
Heavy cream: This is where the magic (and indulgence) happens—pure, creamy goodness.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness, deep flavor, and helps thicken the Alfredo sauce to perfection.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for rounding out the flavors—just a sprinkle goes a long way.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a pop of color and fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze before serving brightens the creamy richness with just the right tang.

How to Make Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine (or linguine) al dente, following the package directions. Al dente pasta holds up nicely and gives a pleasant bite—even after being swirled in that luscious sauce. Once cooked, drain and set the noodles aside, resisting the urge to rinse so the sauce clings to every strand.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

While your pasta cooks, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with a generous tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. This step is key for infusing every bite of shrimp with a Cajun punch, transforming them into the ultimate flavor bombs.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer for quick, even searing. In just 2 to 3 minutes per side, they’ll turn pink and slightly charred on the edges—don’t overcook! Remove them to a plate as soon as they’re opaque and cooked through, keeping those juices in the pan for the sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In that same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and drop in the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Stir for about a minute, letting the garlic turn fragrant but not browned. The aroma sets the stage for what’s to come and adds a deep base note to your Alfredo.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the rest of the Cajun seasoning, stirring until the sauce smooths out, thickens slightly, and takes on that gorgeous blush. Season with salt and black pepper to taste—be sure to give it a little taste test!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles and shrimp are completely enrobed in the creamy, Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce. Let the mixture heat together for another minute or two—just enough for flavors to meld and everything to get perfectly hot and creamy.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer your Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta to plates or a big serving bowl. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and, if you like, add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zingy finish. Grab your forks and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Garnishes

A light shower of freshly chopped parsley not only adds vibrant green color but also an herby freshness that brightens the richness of the Alfredo. For an extra layer of flavor, finish with cracked black pepper or a dash of extra Cajun seasoning on top. A wedge of lemon is a classic touch that brings all the flavors together with a clean, citrusy finish.

Side Dishes

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a filling meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with sides like a crisp Caesar salad, simple steamed broccoli, or a loaf of warm, crusty garlic bread. These sides provide balance and a bit of crunch, making the meal feel like something you’d order at your favorite neighborhood bistro.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, try serving Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta in individual bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan and microgreens. You can also pile it onto a platter and top with extra shrimp and lemon slices for a show-stopping family-style presentation. If you really want to impress, add some grilled veggies or roasted cherry tomatoes for a colorful flourish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta (though odds are slim!), transfer it promptly into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The shrimp and pasta will continue to soak up that flavorful sauce, making leftovers surprisingly tasty.

Freezing

You can freeze Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, though keep in mind that creamy sauces tend to separate when thawed. For best results, let the pasta cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, a splash of extra cream can help restore the silky texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until it’s evenly heated through and creamy again. Avoid high heat and microwaving for too long so the shrimp stays tender instead of rubbery.

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is the classic choice, you can substitute with linguine, spaghetti, penne, or even a gluten-free option if needed. Just remember to cook your pasta until al dente to ensure the best texture.

How spicy does this dish get with Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning gives the dish a warm, peppery kick, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less of the blend. If you prefer a milder Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, start with a scant tablespoon, taste, and bump it up as your tastebuds allow!

Is it possible to make this recipe lighter?

Yes! Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or your favorite unsweetened non-dairy cream alternative. You could also use less butter, but keep in mind that this will change the richness and silkiness of the Alfredo sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta?

Absolutely, and it’s a wonderful way to customize your meal! Try tossing in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted cherry tomatoes for added color, nutrients, and flavor.

What’s the best way to avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so make sure to place them in a single layer on a hot skillet and watch for them to turn pink and opaque. As soon as they do, remove them from the pan to prevent them from becoming tough or rubbery.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s both luxurious and easy to pull off, Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is destined to become your new favorite. It’s creamy, bold, and just a little bit sassy—the best kind of comfort food. Don’t wait for a special occasion to try this showstopper; grab your skillet and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dinner that’ll earn rave reviews every time!