Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine

• 8 oz fettuccine
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Steps

1. 1 Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. 2 Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
3. 3 In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. 4 Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
5. 5 Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
6. 6 Toss cooked fettuccine in sauce, adding pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
7. 7 Add shrimp back to skillet, gently stirring to combine.
8. 8 Finish with lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. 9 Serve immediately.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for pasta

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a veggie boost.
• Substitute chicken for shrimp for a different protein.

Substitutions

• If Parmesan is not available, use another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano.
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Pairings

• A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish nicely.
• A zesty lemon wedge on the side enhances the flavors.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the shrimp.
• If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a bit more pasta water or cream.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly over low heat, stirring in extra cream if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.

FAQ