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Incredible Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: 35-Min Healthy Meal

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with a Healthy Twist
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A comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender shrimp coated in a creamy, spiced Cajun sauce. This recipe puts a healthy spin on a classic, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces linguine or fettuccine
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup milk (low-fat or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  4. Add onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Pour in broth and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
  7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Return shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  9. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or your favorite protein.
  • Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://afripaket.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-pasta-healthy-twist/