Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey to the heart of Cajun cuisine? Our Healthy-ish Cajun Shrimp Alfredo is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines the rich, creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the bold, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a dish that serves four and promises to impress family and friends alike. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you feeling like a culinary superstar. Dive into this delightful blend of shrimp, fettuccine, and spices that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 8 oz of fettuccine pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt and pepper, and 2 tbsp of olive oil.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
- Next, add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cooked shrimp and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the shrimp are heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the fettuccine is cooked, drain it well and add it directly to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Serve the Healthy-ish Cajun Shrimp Alfredo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and creamy dish!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp if possible. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the fettuccine al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. You can also add it gradually to taste.
- Creamy Consistency: If you want a creamier sauce, add a bit more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese to achieve your desired richness.
- Garnish for Flair: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added burst of color and flavor.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 250mg
