Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Cajun Pasta

Creamy Cajun Pasta

Discover the ultimate Creamy Cajun Pasta a 35-minute flavor fiesta with shrimp chicken and a creamy spicy sauce perfect for busy weeknights
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 780
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz rotini pasta or any short pasta
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 0.5 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • to garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Tongs or a slotted spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Boil water in a large pot, salt it, and cook the rotini until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. In a bowl, pat shrimp and chicken dry, toss with Cajun seasoning, then cook in olive oil in a skillet for 5-6 minutes for chicken and 2-3 minutes for shrimp, then set aside.
  3. Lower heat in the skillet, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and milk, then add remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cheeses; whisk until smooth.
  4. Add drained pasta, cooked shrimp, and chicken to the sauce, toss gently to coat, and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 780kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 890mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

You can use any short pasta shape. Adjust the protein to your preference; it's also great with all shrimp or sausage. If you're out of heavy cream, substitute half for milk for a lighter version. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen the sauce. For added authentic flavor, consider sautéing the "holy trinity" of bell peppers, onions, and celery before making the sauce. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan for aesthetics when serving!
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!