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Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta With Spinach – A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2–3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (or 1/4 small onion)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or seafood broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach, lightly packed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Season the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Toss with 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
  3. Sear the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Build the flavor base: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Stir in shallot and cook 1–2 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Deglaze: Pour in broth, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Make it creamy: Stir in cream and remaining 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste). Simmer gently 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Add cheese and spinach: Lower the heat. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add spinach and toss until just wilted.
  8. Combine with pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce seems thick, splash in reserved pasta water a little at a time until it’s silky.
  9. Finish with shrimp and lemon: Return shrimp and any juices to the pan. Toss gently. Add lemon juice, taste, and adjust salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning as needed.
  10. Serve: Top with extra Parmesan and parsley. Serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy hot.