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Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Creamy pasta with shrimp and just the right amount of spice
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds shelled, deveined, large shrimp
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp cajun seasoning, divided (see below)
  • 12 ounces angel hair, or thin spaghetti
  • 5 tbsp butter, divided
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tbsp chopped, fresh parsley

Cajun Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp oregano

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine the spices for the cajun seasoning.
  • In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, 2 1/2 tsps of cajun seasoning, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss to coat and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of water to boil and add pasta. Cook until al dente. Reserve 1/3 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Saute shrimp in small batches 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove shrimp to plate.
  • Add 1 tablespoon butter to now empty skillet and saute onions. Add spinach and wilt gently. Add 1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning to vegetables. Add pasta water to deglaze pan. Transfer vegetables to plate with shrimp
  • Melt remaining butter in skillet. Add half and half and simmer to reduce by 1/4 to 1/3. Add cheese and stir together until somewhat thickened.
  • Add pasta to skillet and toss to coat. Add shrimp and veggies and coat evenly with sauce. Top with fresh parsley and additional cheese