Cajun Pasta

Cajun pasta is a creamy, spicy dish that brings bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. People love it because it’s comforting, filling, and full of flavor without being complicated. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or cold nights when you want a satisfying meal. I like to stir the sauce gently while it simmers to let the spices bloom. This recipe balances creamy richness with a warm Cajun kick, making pasta feel indulgent yet simple to prepare.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cajun pasta recipe is easy, flexible, and full of flavor. It comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight meals or busy evenings. The creamy sauce pairs well with any protein or vegetables you have on hand, and leftovers taste even better the next day. It’s budget-friendly, uses common pantry ingredients, and can be adjusted for spiciness. Pinterest-friendly for saving and sharing, this dish is cozy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners when you want something comforting without stress.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for tender protein.

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
cajun pasta ingredients on a white background

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Dice the vegetables and protein, and measure out spices, cream, and broth. Having everything ready helps the cooking flow smoothly.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken or shrimp and cook until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Return the protein to the pan. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over the mixture. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to create a creamy, fragrant sauce. Let it warm for a few minutes.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Add the cooked pasta to the pan. Stir gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Cajun pasta comes together quickly, especially if the protein and vegetables are prepped ahead. You can cook the pasta and sauce simultaneously, saving time. Leftovers reheat easily in a skillet or microwave, making it a great option for meal prep or feeding family on busy evenings without compromising flavor or texture.

Tips & Tricks

  • Don’t overcook the protein
    Shrimp and chicken cook fast. Remove them from heat slightly early to avoid dryness.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning
    Cajun spice levels vary. Start light and add more gradually to suit your preference.
  • Creamy consistency
    If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream while stirring.
  • Vegetable texture
    Cook peppers and onions until just tender. Overcooking makes them mushy and reduces visual appeal.

Variations

  • Meaty version
    Add cooked sausage or bacon pieces for a smoky depth. Combine with chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish.
  • Vegetarian option
    Replace protein with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a filling vegetarian version.
  • Ingredient swap
    Use half-and-half or milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce, but simmer gently to prevent curdling.
  • Flavor or herb boost
    Finish with fresh basil, chives, or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness and aroma.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic dinner
    Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a full meal.
  • Casual family meal
    Plate in bowls with extra Parmesan and parsley on top for a cozy, approachable dinner.
  • Party-friendly
    Offer in a large serving dish with tongs for a buffet-style dinner, letting guests help themselves.
  • Weeknight bowls
    Pair with roasted vegetables for a balanced, easy-to-prepare weeknight bowl.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge storage
    Keep in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Stir gently when reheating.
  • Reheating
    Warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore texture.
  • Freezing
    Freeze cooked pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Make-ahead tips
    Prep vegetables and protein ahead, storing separately. Cook sauce and pasta just before serving for fresh flavor.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Rest Time: Not needed
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 450–550 per serving
Protein: 25–30 g
Provides calcium from Parmesan and vitamin C from bell peppers. Values may vary based on protein choice and portion size.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prep ingredients and store separately. Cook pasta and sauce just before serving.

Common mistake?
Overcooking protein or pasta, which can make the dish dry.

Substitute for chicken?
Shrimp, sausage, or tofu work well.

Why is the sauce thin?
Simmer longer or add more cheese to thicken.

How long can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for 3–4 days; freeze up to 2 months.

How to adjust spice?
Add more Cajun seasoning gradually or serve extra at the table.

Conclusion

Cajun pasta is a cozy, flavorful meal that works for busy nights, casual family dinners, or meal prep. The creamy, spicy sauce clings to pasta perfectly, while the protein and vegetables make it satisfying. You can customize spices, protein, and veggies based on what you have at home. It’s a simple, flexible recipe that feels homemade and comforting, perfect for saving and returning to whenever you need a warm, filling dish.

Cajun Pasta
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Cajun Pasta

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Pasta Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

500

kcal

Creamy, spicy Cajun pasta with chicken or shrimp, bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp, diced

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 1 bell pepper, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions

  • Boil pasta until al dente, then drain. Prep vegetables and protein.
  • Heat oil, cook chicken/shrimp until lightly browned. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
  • Add protein back, sprinkle spices, pour in cream and broth, stir well.
  • Toss pasta into sauce, stir in Parmesan and parsley, simmer 2–3 minutes.

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