Spicy Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

The aroma of spices wafts through the air, mingling with the creamy sauce as it bubbles gently on the stove. Imagine twirling a fork around a generous helping of creamy Cajun pasta; each bite bursts with flavor that dances on your tongue.

This dish always takes me back to lively family gatherings where the laughter is as spicy as the food. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, ready to enjoy a delightful experience filled with warmth and flavor.

I remember serving this creamy Cajun pasta at a family reunion; everyone loved it so much they asked for seconds — and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type; fettuccine or penne works great for capturing that creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
• Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh cloves over pre-minced for an aromatic kick in every bite.
• Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade—just ensure it’s balanced well between heat and flavor.
• Heavy Cream: This gives our dish its signature creaminess; use full-fat for best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese to enhance flavor; powdered can’t compare!
• Bell Peppers: Colorful varieties add sweetness and crunch; choose red or yellow for visual appeal.
• Chicken Breast or Shrimp: Depending on your preference—both options absorb flavors beautifully!
• Green Onions: Chopped fresh green onions make an excellent garnish bringing freshness to each serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your bell peppers and garlic finely. Measure out your heavy cream and grate the parmesan cheese while you’re at it—everything will come together faster!

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—then toss in the bell peppers until they soften slightly.

Add Protein: If you’re using chicken breast or shrimp, add them now! Sauté until cooked through—approximately 5-7 minutes for chicken or 3-4 minutes for shrimp until they turn pink.

Create Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add Parmesan cheese gradually; watch as it melts into a velvety sauce coating everything perfectly.

Season It Up: Sprinkle in your Cajun seasoning while mixing thoroughly until everything is coated in that spicy goodness! Adjust seasoning to your taste — more spice? Go wild!

Serve hot garnished with freshly chopped green onions on top, making every plate look like a masterpiece ready to impress anyone lucky enough to sit down for dinner.

This creamy Cajun pasta recipe is not just another dinner option; it’s an experience waiting to unfold on your dining table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta first; then, while it’s simmering, prepare the sauce with sautéed vegetables and spices for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or chicken, or load it up with veggies like spinach and bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive its texture.

Creating this creamy Cajun pasta has become a family favorite. One time, my cousin declared it “life-changing,” and I just knew I nailed it!

FAQ

Can I make creamy Cajun pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the meat and add more vegetables for a hearty meal.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or penne are great choices for holding onto that delicious creamy sauce.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Creamy Cajun Pasta

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Cajun Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and a hint of spice, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red or yellow)
• 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp, diced
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped bell peppers and cook until slightly softened.
3. Add the diced chicken breast or shrimp and sauté until cooked through—about 5-7 minutes for chicken or 3-4 minutes for shrimp.
4. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream, gradually adding the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Mix in the Cajun seasoning, adjusting to taste.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, replace meat with additional vegetables such as spinach or zucchini.
• Adjust spiciness by adding more Cajun seasoning or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 105mg