This Easy Creamy Cajun Pasta is a delightful mix of rich flavors with a kick! Creamy sauce, zesty Cajun spices, and tender pasta come together for a quick and tasty dinner.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Just cook the pasta, mix in that creamy sauce, and watch your family dive in. I mean, who can resist a bowl of this deliciousness? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fettuccine for a satisfying bite. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily swap in gluten-free pasta; just watch the cooking time as it varies.
Chicken or Shrimp: This recipe is versatile! Chicken breast is a great choice for heartiness, but if you prefer seafood, shrimp adds a lovely touch. If you want a veggie option, try using mushrooms or bell peppers in place of meat.
Cajun Seasoning: You can either buy Cajun seasoning or blend your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne. If you want a milder flavor, reduce the amount or use less spicy alternatives.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk, but it may alter the flavor slightly. You could also try a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Getting a creamy sauce can be tricky but is essential for this dish. Here are some tips for success:
- Start with medium heat when cooking the garlic and onions; too high and they can burn.
- Simmer the sauce gently after adding the cream; boiling can cause it to separate.
- Add the Parmesan cheese gradually and stir continuously until melted for a smoother texture.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to tailor it to your taste; a little extra Cajun seasoning can enhance the flavor.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious sauce that perfectly coats your pasta!
Easy Creamy Cajun Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or shrimp, sliced (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Cajun Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner while being flavorful enough to impress! Get your ingredients ready because you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Protein:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using chicken breast or shrimp, add it to the skillet and cook until it’s fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes for chicken and 3-4 minutes for shrimp. Once cooked, remove the protein from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is fragrant and translucent. Then, add the sliced red and green bell peppers, cooking until they soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Spice It Up:
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the sautéed vegetables and give everything a good stir, ensuring the spices coat the veggies evenly. This is where the kick of Cajun flavor starts to build!
5. Create the Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy base is what makes the dish rich and satisfying!
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. If you love a bit more spice, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken or shrimp back to the skillet, mixing it into the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that luscious sauce.
8. Serve & Garnish:
Transfer the creamy Cajun pasta to serving dishes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy your delicious Cajun creation right away!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cajun Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work great, you can substitute any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta type.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Omit the chicken or shrimp and replace them with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. Just ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the flavor!
