Creamy Cajun Shrimp Penne

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich and zesty flavors of Cajun cuisine. This creamy shrimp penne recipe is a delightful blend of succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. With its quick preparation time and accessible ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to whip up, satisfying both the palate and the soul.

Dive into the delicious world of Cajun cuisine with this creamy shrimp penne recipe! Blending succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your spice preferences, this dish exemplifies the bold flavors of Cajun cooking. Enjoy the comforting textures and vibrant tastes that bring a taste of Louisiana right to your table. Perfect for both novice and experienced cooks!

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Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust according to heat preference)

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 11-13 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Season the Shrimp: In a medium mixing bowl, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp, tossing until they are evenly coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.

Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp have turned pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Liquids: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in the heavy cream, blending it well with the vegetable mixture. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Combine Everything: Add the drained penne pasta back into the skillet along with the sautéed shrimp. Toss everything together, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle the lemon juice over the top. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the creamy shrimp penne immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra touch of flavor.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4