Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta

Looking for a dish that brings together the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with the rich, creamy decadence of Alfredo sauce? Look no further than this Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Tender shrimp coated in a vibrant Cajun spice mix, swimming in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, and tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta—this recipe checks all the boxes for comfort and flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just craving a fresh twist on classic Alfredo, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta stands out because it balances two distinct flavor profiles—spicy and creamy—in one harmonious dish. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky heat to the shrimp, which contrasts beautifully with the smooth, cheesy Alfredo sauce. Plus, using penne pasta ensures every bite captures the sauce and shrimp perfectly. This dish is quick to prepare but delivers restaurant-quality results that impress family and friends alike. It’s comfort food with a kick, ideal for those who want a little excitement on their plate without complicated steps.

What We’re Using

• 8 ounces penne pasta – The perfect rigged tube pasta to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or frozen, make sure they’re clean and ready to cook.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and adding richness.
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – A blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs that packs a flavorful punch.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the velvety base of the Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential aromatic depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season everything just right.
• Chopped parsley for garnish – Freshness and color to finish the dish.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot – For boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the shrimp and make the sauce.
• Colander – To drain pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accuracy with ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – To stir sauce and pasta without scratching cookware.
• Grater – For freshly grating Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about a half cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is well coated. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the cream gently simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. Heat for another minute or two until everything is warmed through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• For a warm-weather twist, swap out heavy cream for coconut milk and add fresh diced tomatoes for a lighter, tropical vibe.
• In cooler months, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra heartiness and nutrition.
• Try swapping penne for fettuccine or linguine to mix up the textures.
• For an extra kick, drizzle a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• Shrimp selection matters: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, but be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
• Make your own Cajun seasoning: If you don’t have a blend on hand, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper for a quick DIY version.
• Cheese choice: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-grated options.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Freezing is possible, but the texture of shrimp and cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. For freezing, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even rigatoni. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to the pasta type.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor but keep the richness intact.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?

The level of spice depends on your Cajun seasoning blend. Typically, it has a moderate heat with smoky and herbal notes. Feel free to adjust the amount or add more cayenne pepper if you prefer it spicier.

Can I find a similar recipe with different seafood?

If you love seafood pasta, you might enjoy recipes like Creamy Cajun Crab Pasta or Black Pepper Shrimp Garlic Noodles. For a twist on Alfredo with shrimp, check out this flavorful Garlic Herb Shrimp Alfredo.

Reader Favorites

• Creamy Cajun Crab Pasta – A luscious alternative with sweet crab meat and the same bold Cajun flavors.
• Black Pepper Shrimp Garlic Noodles – A quick and spicy noodle dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
• Garlic Herb Shrimp Alfredo – A fresh take on classic Alfredo with garlic and herbs.

The Last Word

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta brings together the best of both worlds: the fiery zest of Cajun spices and the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the plate. Dive in, savor each mouthful, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Share on Pinterest