Craving a dish that combines the bold, fiery flavors of Cajun cuisine with the creamy, indulgent comfort of Alfredo pasta? Look no further! This Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a mouthwatering masterpiece that promises to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. Imagine succulent, perfectly seasoned shrimp nestled in a velvety, Parmesan-rich sauce, clinging to ribbons of tender fettuccine – it's a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Louisiana.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season thoroughly with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coating on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly curled, with golden edges. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and pour in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Gently fold in cooked shrimp, ensuring they are heated through and well-distributed.
- Plate the pasta, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself for the smoothest, most flavorful sauce.
- Don't overcook the shrimp – they should be just pink and slightly curled for the most tender texture.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; its starchy magic helps create a silkier sauce.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your Cajun seasoning.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest and the shrimp at their most succulent.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 280mg
