Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

If you love bold flavors and creamy pasta, Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is the perfect dish for you!

This recipe combines succulent blackened shrimp with a rich, velvety Cajun cream sauce, all tossed with the unique twists of cavatappi pasta.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste in just 35 minutes.

Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible pasta dish at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Blackened Shrimp:

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 12 oz cavatappi pasta
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Blacken the Shrimp

  1. Pat the shrimp dry and toss them with Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened and fully cooked.
  4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  4. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired sauce consistency.
  5. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
  2. Add the blackened shrimp back into the pan and gently mix everything together.
  3. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
  4. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi close up

Tips for the Best Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

  • Choosing the right shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but ensure they are properly thawed and dried before seasoning.
  • Perfecting the blackened crust: High heat is key! Don’t overcrowd the pan to get a nice char on the shrimp.
  • Keeping the sauce creamy: Avoid boiling the cream, as it can separate. A gentle simmer is best.

What to Serve with Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

  • Garlic Bread: The perfect side for scooping up extra sauce. Click here for a recipe.
  • Light Side Salad: A refreshing balance to the rich and creamy pasta. You can find our salad recipes here.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus complement the dish well.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Make it Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
  • Protein Swaps: Use chicken, salmon, or tofu instead of shrimp.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and check Cajun seasoning for additives.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
  • Freezing: The sauce may separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with penne, fusilli, or fettuccine.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch for a lighter sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi (35-Minutes)

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a creamy, spicy, and satisfying dish that combines perfectly seasoned shrimp with a rich Parmesan sauce and tender cavatappi pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and serves as a comforting yet flavorful main course.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's packed with bold Cajun flavors and a creamy finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Cajun
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cavatappi pasta
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  • Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Blacken the Shrimp

  • Pat the shrimp dry and toss them with Cajun seasoning.
  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened and fully cooked.
  • Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  • Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
  • Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  • Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired sauce consistency.
  • Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  • Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
  • Add the blackened shrimp back into the pan and gently mix everything together.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Keyword Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

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