Spicy Cajun Pasta with Jumbo Shrimp
Ingredients
1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Prepare the Sauce:
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately.
