Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Spinach Penne

When you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and just a little spicy, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Spinach Penne delivers in every bite. Tender shrimp coated in smoky Cajun spices, tossed with perfectly cooked penne, and enveloped in a luscious cream sauce — it’s the kind of meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color, nutrition, and balance to the richness, making it a complete meal in one skillet.

This dish is perfect for weeknights because it comes together in under 30 minutes, yet it’s elegant enough to serve for a special dinner at home. The combination of bold Cajun spices, sweet shrimp, and creamy Parmesan sauce is pure comfort with a kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Restaurant-quality flavor – Creamy, spicy, and perfectly balanced.
• One-pan convenience – Minimal cleanup required.
• Customizable heat level – Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to taste.
• Great for leftovers – The sauce reheats beautifully for the next day’s lunch.

Ingredients Breakdown

Serves: 4

Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta – The ridges help hold the creamy Cajun sauce.

Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Sweet, tender seafood that cooks in minutes.

Vegetables

• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves – Adds freshness and nutrients while cutting the richness of the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides depth and aromatic flavor.

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – Smoky, spicy blend that defines the dish.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky undertones.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For an extra heat kick.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances and heightens flavors.

Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream – The base for a silky, indulgent sauce.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Adds savory depth without overpowering the creaminess.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty richness.

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens and freshens the final dish.

Cooking Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and garlic.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels for better browning.
2. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. Transfer cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
4. Lower heat to medium and stir in heavy cream.
5. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Season with crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Combine

1. Stir spinach into the sauce and cook until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
2. Return shrimp to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta.
3. Toss everything together until pasta is well coated in sauce.
4. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
2. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp if possible – They have a sweeter, more delicate flavor than frozen.
• Don’t overcook shrimp – They become rubbery quickly; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Reserve pasta water – The starch helps bind the sauce and create a silky finish.
• Adjust spice level – Reduce Cajun seasoning for mild flavor, increase red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Fresh Parmesan only – Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This pasta brings together creamy, smoky, spicy, and savory notes in perfect harmony.

Great Pairings:

• Wine: Chardonnay or Pinot Gris
• Salad: A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Bread: Warm, crusty bread to soak up extra sauce
• Veggies: Roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbohydrates	46 g
Fat	22 g
Fiber	4 g

Variations to Try

• Cajun Chicken Penne – Swap shrimp for chicken breast or thighs.
• Vegetarian Option – Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and roasted red peppers.
• Extra Veggies – Add diced tomatoes, corn, or zucchini for a heartier dish.
• Lighter Sauce – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Make-Ahead: Cook pasta and shrimp separately, store sauce in a jar. Combine just before serving.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cream sauces can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, just follow package instructions for cooking time.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What’s the best Cajun seasoning brand?
Slap Ya Mama, Tony Chachere’s, and Zatarain’s are all popular options.

Can I add more protein?
Yes, try adding chicken sausage or even doubling the shrimp.

Cooking Timeline (Quick Glance)

Step	Time
Cook pasta	10 min
Cook shrimp	5–6 min
Build sauce	5 min
Combine and serve	3–4 min
Total Time	~25 min

Ingredient Spotlight: Cajun Seasoning

Cajun seasoning is a bold blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. It originated in Louisiana and is known for its smoky, spicy-sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood, chicken, and vegetables.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Spinach Penne is the ultimate weeknight indulgence — quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The Cajun seasoning gives the dish its smoky kick, the cream sauce delivers velvety comfort, and the spinach balances everything with fresh vibrance. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, this pasta will always impress. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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