Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
For a twist, you can substitute fettuccine with penne or linguine, and if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, whole wheat pasta works beautifully too. If shrimp isn’t your thing, chicken or tofu are excellent substitutes.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook until everything is heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Just like my abuela taught me, trust your senses as you cook. The sauce should be silky and fragrant, a beautiful blend that clings to each strand of pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International