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Cajun Shrimp and Crab Pasta Recipe

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5 from 66 reviews

A rich and flavorful Shrimp & Crab Pasta tossed in a creamy Cajun sauce. This seafood pasta dish combines perfectly seared shrimp, tender lump crab meat, and al dente pasta coated in a spicy, creamy sauce made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Cajun seasoning. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying, this recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special dinner.

Ingredients

Seafood

  • ¾ to 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz lump crab meat

Pasta

  • 12 oz fettuccine, linguine, or penne pasta

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter (divided)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • ¼ cup green onions or parsley, chopped

Extras

  • Reserved pasta water, as needed

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta of your choice (fettuccine, linguine, or penne) until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta completely.
  2. Season Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined large shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt, ensuring even coating for flavor.
  3. Sear Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  4. Warm Crab Meat: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet and gently warm the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps. Once warmed through, remove the crab meat and set aside with the shrimp.
  5. Sauté Garlic: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Create Creamy Sauce: Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning then pour in the heavy cream. Allow the cream to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  7. Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Toss Together: Return the cooked pasta, seared shrimp, and warmed crab meat into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it to desired consistency.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley on top before serving warm for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen shrimp, thawed before cooking, for best results.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning amounts based on desired spice level.
  • Reserve pasta water helps loosen the sauce for perfect consistency.
  • Do not overcook seafood to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Parmesan cheese adds depth and creaminess, but can be omitted or substituted with nutritional yeast for a lighter option.
  • Garnishes like green onions or parsley add a nice color contrast and freshness.

Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/cajun-shrimp-and-crab-pasta-recipe/