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One-Pan Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Tender shrimp, penne, and a smoky cream sauce with Cajun spice come together in one skillet in under 20 minutes. Finish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Total time
18 min
Servings
2
Calories
612
Protein
34g
One-Pan Cajun Shrimp Pasta
comfortquickamericancajunshrimptendercreamyMain course

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Boil penne in salted water until al dente, about 9 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.

  2. Step 2

    Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear 90 seconds per side until opaque.

  3. Step 3

    Remove shrimp to a plate. Add minced garlic (2 cloves) to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in smoked paprika and Cajun seasoning, then pour in cream and 0.5 cup reserved pasta water. Simmer 2 minutes.

  5. Step 5

    Add penne and shrimp back to the skillet, tossing to coat. Squeeze half the lemon over and taste for seasoning.

  6. Step 6

    Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and remaining lemon wedge.

Tools you’ll need

  • large pot for pasta
  • 12-inch skillet
  • colander
  • tongs or wooden spoon

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