Name: Cajun Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced, or shrimp peeled and deveined; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2-3 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (adjust to taste)

If you’re craving a dish that combines bold spices, creamy textures, and speedy prep time, then our Cajun Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together the fiery flavors of Cajun seasoning with a luscious sauce that coats every bite of tender pasta, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle. Whether you’re new to Cajun cuisine or a longtime fan, this recipe delivers incredible taste in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
Bold Flavors: The Cajun seasoning packs a punch that wakes up your taste buds.
Creamy Comfort: The sauce is rich and velvety, balancing the spices effortlessly.
Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite proteins or veggies.
Family-Friendly: A great way to introduce spicy flavors in a kid-friendly manner by adjusting heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With simple, staple ingredients, this Cajun Pasta Recipe lets each component shine while building layers of flavor and texture you’ll love. From aromatics to spices, every item plays a role in creating this mouthwatering dish.

Pasta: Fettuccine or penne works best to hold onto the creamy sauce.
Cajun Seasoning: The star of the show, bringing smoky, spicy, and herbaceous notes.
Chicken Breast or Shrimp: Adds protein and soaking up the sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Creates the rich, silky sauce that complements the spices.
Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics to deepen the flavor base.
Bell Peppers: For color, crunch, and a sweet contrast to the heat.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness to finish the sauce perfectly.
Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness.

Variations for Cajun Pasta Recipe

One of the best things about this Cajun Pasta Recipe is how easy it is to tweak according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Swap the Protein: Use sausage, tofu, or even vegetables like mushrooms instead of chicken or shrimp.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream to keep it creamy without dairy.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrition and color.
Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or add cayenne to make it mild or fiery.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free noodles for those with dietary restrictions without losing any flavor.

Easy Cajun Pasta Recipe for a Spicy Twist

How to Make Cajun Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by chopping your onions, garlic, and bell peppers, then slice the chicken breasts or prepare the shrimp. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Protein and Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken or shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, cooking until done, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle additional Cajun seasoning to taste. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens slightly, then add parmesan cheese to melt into the sauce, creating silkiness.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked protein to the pan, then toss in the drained pasta. Mix well so every strand is coated with that luscious spicy sauce, and cook for another minute to warm through.

Pro Tips for Making Cajun Pasta Recipe

Fresh Seasoning: Use fresh Cajun spice blends for the most vibrant flavor.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will absorb the sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
Deglaze the Pan: Use a splash of broth or wine to scrape up browned bits for added depth in your sauce.
Heat Control: Start with less Cajun seasoning and adjust gradually to suit your spice tolerance.
Rest the Dish: Let the pasta sit a minute before serving to allow flavors to meld together perfectly.

How to Serve Cajun Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note that balances the spicy richness.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad or simple garlic bread to round out the meal and add contrasting textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce, or try it over grilled polenta for a fun twist that adds texture and an extra layer of comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors vibrant and the sauce creamy.

Freezing

This Cajun Pasta Recipe freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess without drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I make this Cajun Pasta Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken or shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even plant-based protein to keep it flavorful and satisfying.

How spicy is the Cajun pasta?

The heat level depends on how much Cajun seasoning you use and whether you add extra cayenne, so you can tailor it from mild to spicy as you prefer.

What pasta works best for Cajun Pasta Recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are ideal since their surface and shape hold the creamy sauce really well.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh for optimal creaminess and flavor. If you do make it ahead, reheat gently and whisk before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The dish itself is naturally gluten-free if you select gluten-free pasta, so be sure to check your Cajun seasoning and other ingredients for hidden gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners, delivering a flavorful punch wrapped in creamy comfort. It’s quick, adaptable, and utterly delicious—perfect for anyone looking to spice up their routine without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!

Cajun Pasta Recipe

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Cajun
Diet: Gluten-Free (if gluten-free pasta used)

Print Recipe

Description

This Cajun Pasta Recipe delivers bold, spicy flavors combined with a creamy, velvety sauce that coats tender pasta perfectly. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite proteins or veggies. A family-friendly, versatile dish that introduces the vibrant taste of Cajun cuisine with ease and comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

Protein

1 lb chicken breast, sliced, or shrimp peeled and deveined

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)

Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and bell peppers, and slice the chicken breasts or prepare the shrimp to have everything ready for a smooth cooking process.
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Protein and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken or shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook until fully done. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and fragrant.
Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add additional Cajun seasoning to taste. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into a silky sauce.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked protein to the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta, mixing well so it’s fully coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute to warm through, then serve.