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Fixing 1 Flaw: Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo

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Create a restaurant-quality Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo that delivers tender shrimp swimming in a rich, creamy sauce with a perfect kick of spice. This foolproof recipe guarantees a satisfying, indulgent dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound fettuccine pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, season the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  5. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1 minute.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper, if using. Heat gently, do not boil.
  7. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
  8. Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  9. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together for one minute to reheat the shrimp.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For the best sauce texture, do not let the cream boil once the cheese is added.
  • You can substitute Alfredo sauce with a store-bought version if you are short on time, but adjust the Cajun seasoning accordingly.
  • Pat the shrimp very dry before seasoning; this helps them sear instead of steam.

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