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Cajun Shrimp with Tomato Alfredo Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 32 reviews

This Cajun Shrimp with Tomato Alfredo Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining perfectly seasoned, sautéed shrimp with a creamy tomato Alfredo sauce served over tender fettuccine pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and zesty with a hint of Cajun spice.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces fettuccine pasta (uncooked)

Shrimp

  • 12 ounces large shrimp, shells removed
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking shrimp)

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can)
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Garnish

  • 3 fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the shrimp. While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the onion and garlic. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Once the butter melts, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
  4. Simmer sauce with tomatoes. Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
  5. Finish making the tomato Alfredo sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat. Taste and season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your preference.
  6. Add pasta and shrimp. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy tomato Alfredo sauce.
  7. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta and add extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
  • Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor and a smoother sauce texture.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce may be less rich.
  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American