
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
- 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.
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 (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.
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.