This Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a bold and flavorful twist on the classic dish. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a garlicky butter sauce with Cajun spices, then tossed with pasta for a dish that’s spicy, creamy, and utterly delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress guests!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and olive oil. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute, until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with the white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits, and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Combine the Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
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