Name: Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce for Seafood Lovers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Butter (Can use olive oil as a healthier alternative.); 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (Divide and adjust according to taste preference.); 3 cloves Garlic (Chopped; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is not available.); 3 tbsp Flour (Use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Evaporated milk can be substituted for a lighter version.); 2 cups Fresh Grated Parmesan (Use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.); 2 tsp Black Pepper (Use less for a milder dish.); Salt (Enhances flavor; use to taste.); 1 cup Pasta Water (Reserved; helps to adjust sauce consistency.); 1 lb Spaghetti Pasta (Can substitute with gluten-free pasta.); 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (Peeled & deveined; substitute with scallops or firm fish if preferred.); 1/2 lb Lump Crabmeat (Can replace with crab claws.); Red Bell Pepper (Adds sweetness and color.); Yellow Bell Pepper (Provides a slightly sweet flavor.); 1/2 White Onion (Chopped; substitute with yellow onion for a stronger flavor.); 1 rib Celery (Contributes crunch and flavor.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Can be omitted for fresher flavor.)

When I first tasted a dish of Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce in a quaint Louisiana bistro, it felt like the vibrant flavors of the bayou danced on my palate. This recipe brings the essence of that delicious experience right to your kitchen, transforming humble ingredients into a seafood sensation that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal is not only a crowd-pleaser but also provides a delightful opportunity to explore creamy, zesty Cajun flavors. Plus, you can easily adapt this dish for gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste. Are you ready to dive into this seafood adventure and impress your loved ones?

Why is this pasta dish a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The rich and creamy Cajun sauce ignites your taste buds, bringing a delightful kick to every bite.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for gatherings, this pasta dish caters to both seafood lovers and those new to Cajun cuisine.

Easy to Make: Simplistic steps allow you to create a gourmet meal without feeling overwhelmed.

Versatile Customization: Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or adjust the spices to suit your heat preferences, making it your own.

For an equally satisfying dish, consider trying my Garlic Butter Shrimp for a quick weeknight win!

Shrimp & Crab Pasta Ingredients

For the Sauce

Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness; can use olive oil as a healthier alternative.
Cajun Seasoning (2 tbsp, divided) – Offers spice and flavor complexity; adjust according to taste preference.
Garlic (3 cloves, chopped) – Adds aroma and flavor; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is not available.
Flour (3 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce; use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a creamy texture; evaporated milk can be substituted for a lighter version.
Fresh Grated Parmesan (2 cups) – Adds rich flavor; use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Black Pepper (2 tsp) – Adds heat; use less for a milder dish.
Salt – Enhances flavor; use to taste.
Pasta Water (1 cup, reserved) – Helps to adjust sauce consistency; do not skip this step.

For the Pasta

Spaghetti Pasta (1 lb, cooked) – Base for the dish; can substitute with gluten-free pasta.

For the Seafood

Jumbo Shrimp (1 lb, peeled & deveined) – Main protein; substitute with scallops or firm fish if preferred.
Lump Crabmeat (1/2 lb) – Essential for seafood flavor; can replace with crab claws.

For the Vegetables

Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with orange or yellow bell pepper for variety.
Yellow Bell Pepper – Provides a slightly sweet flavor; can use only red if preferred.
White Onion (1/2, chopped) – Adds depth and sweetness; substitute with yellow onion for a stronger flavor.
Celery (1 rib) – Contributes crunch and flavor; omit if not available.

For Extra Flavor

Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances garlic flavor; can be omitted for fresher flavor.

Get ready to whip up this delicious Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Cajun country!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 1 pound of spaghetti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta but make sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later use. Set aside the drained pasta while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 chopped yellow bell pepper, ½ chopped white onion, and 1 rib of sliced celery to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and sauté everything for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant. Add 3 cloves of chopped garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Stir in 3 tablespoons of flour into the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously to remove any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the reserved 1 cup of pasta water and 1 cup of heavy cream, mixing well to combine. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Mix in 2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook Seafood
In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp that you’ve seasoned with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking ensures they remain juicy and tender, contributing to the delightful textures of your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Once the shrimp are cooked, gently fold in ½ pound of lump crabmeat into the creamy sauce. Then, add the reserved spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce, and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and fully combined with the sauce and seafood. Let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 minutes to bring all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve
Serve your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions for extra color and flavor. For a zesty touch, accompany the dish with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy the rich, flavorful essence of Cajun cuisine right at your table!

Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce Variations

Feel free to customize this dish to suit your cravings or dietary needs with these delightful twists and swaps.

Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or lobster for a luxurious touch, enhancing the seafood symphony in your dish. Imagine the ocean’s bounty coming together in one sumptuous forkful!
Gluten-Free Pasta: Opt for gluten-free spaghetti to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing any of the creamy goodness. This way, everyone can enjoy the lush flavors!
Vegetable Boost: Add more veggies such as spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color. These leafy greens will bring a vibrant freshness to your creamy sauce while contributing to a well-rounded meal.
Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that offers a unique tropical flavor. The richness of coconut goes surprisingly well with Cajun spices!
Spice Level: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
Noodle Variety: Try using fettuccine or penne pasta as an alternative to spaghetti. Different noodles can change the mouthfeel of the dish in a delightful way.
Creamy Grits Base: For a unique twist, serve the sauce over creamy grits instead of pasta. This Southern classic pairs beautifully with seafood and spicy sauces.
Garlic Lovers: If you’re a garlic enthusiast, double the amount of garlic in the recipe, or add roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor. Your taste buds will celebrate this garlicky goodness!

For a quick meal idea one night, check out my Lemon Garlic Shrimp or if you want to enjoy a comforting soup, give my Lasagna Soup a try!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp & Crab Pasta

Fridge: Store leftover Shrimp & Crab Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating gently on low heat helps retain its creamy texture.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Note that the texture may change when thawed.

Thawing: To reheat frozen pasta, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on low heat. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water for creaminess.

Texture Preservation: For best results, store pasta and seafood separately if you anticipate leftovers, ensuring each component maintains its ideal texture.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce in advance can make weeknight cooking a breeze! You can chop the vegetables (red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, white onion, and celery) up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance—just combine the sautéed vegetables and sauce ingredients and refrigerate, but avoid adding the seafood until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to eat, simply sauté the shrimp, fold in the crabmeat, and warm the sauce gently before mixing with the cooked pasta. This way, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time, just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this rich seafood dish with delightful sides that enhance its flavors and textures.

Garlic Bread: The crusty, buttery goodness complements the creamy sauce, soaking up every drop of flavor for a satisfying bite.
Simple Side Salad: A crisp mix of greens and a light vinaigrette add freshness and balance, countering the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender, bright asparagus spears offer a nutritious textural contrast, creating a visually appealing plate.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, enhancing the seafood’s natural flavors while adding a zesty kick.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy mango salsa introduces a tropical flair that complements the Cajun spices beautifully. Serve it as a topping for a delightful twist!
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of white wine pairs perfectly, its acidity cutting through the creamy sauce, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse rounds out the meal beautifully, providing a decadent but not overwhelming finish.
Garlic Herb Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of garlic and herbs can be an ideal base, soaking up sauce and providing a satisfying side.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts introduce a nutty flavor and crunch, wonderfully enhancing the overall meal profile.

Expert Tips for Shrimp & Crab Pasta

Tailor the Heat: Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it away!
Avoid Soggy Seafood: If you have leftovers, store the pasta and seafood separately to maintain their textures and avoid sogginess.
Creamy Consistency: When reheating your Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture.
Prep Ahead: If time allows, chop the vegetables in advance. This makes the cooking process smoother on busy weeknights.
Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Reserve that cup of pasta water! It’s key for adjusting the sauce consistency to your desired creaminess.

Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh, firm, and translucent ones. Avoid shrimp that is discolored or has dark spots all over, as these can indicate spoilage. I prefer jumbo shrimp for this dish, as their size allows them to stand out beautifully in your pasta. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using fresh seafood from local markets for the most authentic flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to maintain that creamy consistency. As mentioned, if you can, keep the seafood and pasta separate to prevent sogginess!

Can I freeze Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the pasta into airtight containers and store for up to 1 month. However, keep in mind that the texture might change upon thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then gently reheat on low heat with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water for creamy perfection.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Certainly! For a gluten-free option, simply swap regular spaghetti pasta for gluten-free pasta. Additionally, if you or someone at your table has a shellfish allergy, feel free to substitute shrimp and crab with firm fish like salmon or cod. This dish remains flavorful and delightful, regardless of the modifications.

What should I do if the sauce turns out too thick?
Don’t worry! If your sauce gets too thick, simply and gradually add a little more reserved pasta water while stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps adjust the texture without compromising the flavor!

How can I enhance the flavors of my Shrimp & Crab Pasta?
Great question! I recommend finishing the dish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a refreshing pop. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving elevates the dish’s flavor and adds a delightful brightness, making each bite a flavor-packed delight!