Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting allure of creamy pasta! Our Creamy Cajun Tomato and Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With succulent shrimp, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let everything heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
- Once the fettuccine is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Creamy Cajun Tomato and Garlic Shrimp Pasta!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the best texture, make sure to cook the fettuccine until it’s al dente. This will allow it to absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
- Shrimp Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the Cajun seasoning! It’s what gives this dish its signature kick. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
- Garlic Goodness: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly. You want it fragrant and lightly golden, not brown.
- Tomato Time: Allow the cherry tomatoes to soften and release their juices before adding the cream. This step enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
- Garnish for Greatness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish's flavor profile. Don’t skip this step!
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the shrimp tender.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 557kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 195mg
