Chili’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you enjoy a little spice in your (food) life, Chili’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta will be one you start talking about with friends after you try it!

The key to getting that rich flavor lies in the Cajun spices combined with a rich Alfredo sauce.

Don’t be afraid to add freshly grated Parmesan cheese—it’s not just for garnish, it melts beautifully into the sauce.

Make sure to cook your pasta al dente in salted water to really bring out the flavor.

How to Make Chili’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz. Spaghetti
• 1 lb. Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp. Butter
• 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp. Cajun Seasoning
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1 tbsp. Lemon Juice
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 3:

Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until opaque.

Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4:

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer while stirring.

Gradually add grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Step 5:

Return shrimp to the skillet and add the pasta.

Toss everything together to coat well with the sauce.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Al Dente Perfection

When cooking the pasta, keep a close eye on the timer to avoid overcooking.

Al dente pasta has a slight firmness and is perfect for this dish.

Balanced Cajun Spices

If you find Cajun seasoning a bit too spicy, you can mix it with a pinch of paprika for milder heat.

Adjusting the heat allows everyone to enjoy this vibrant recipe.

Sauce Thickness

Should you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer after adding the Parmesan.

The sauce will naturally thicken more once mixed with the pasta and shrimp.

Fresh Shrimp Matters

Using fresh shrimp, if available, will elevate the dish with sweetness and a delicate texture.

Frozen shrimp can be a convenient substitute, just ensure it’s well-drained.

Alternative Cheese

If Parmesan isn’t available, feel free to try Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor.

Experimenting with cheese types can add a new twist to the recipe.

What to Serve with Chili’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with a classic garlic bread alongside your Chili’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta.

A warm, crispy baguette slathered in garlic butter adds a wonderful crunchy texture to your meal.

The aromatic garlic flavor complements the spices in your pasta, making every bite satisfying.

Creamy Coleslaw

Try adding a fresh and creamy coleslaw as a unique side dish.

The crisp cabbage and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Plus, it’s quick to prepare and adds a bit of coolness.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus makes a fantastic addition to your meal with its earthy, slightly sweet flavor.

A light drizzle of lemon juice before serving can enhance its taste and add brightness to your plate.

It pairs well with shrimp and brings a healthy element to dinner.

Southern Cornbread

Southern cornbread offers a savory and slightly sweet flavor that works nicely with your pasta.

The fluffy and moist texture acts as a perfect sponge for the pasta sauce, soaking up all the goodness.

It’s a hearty choice that keeps things interesting.

Mango Avocado Salad

Consider serving a mango avocado salad for a refreshing twist.

The sweet mango and creamy avocado pieces work incredibly well with the spiciness of the shrimp.

A light lime vinaigrette dressing ties everything together and makes your meal unforgettable.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap the Shrimp

You can use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp if you prefer.

Cook chicken thoroughly, or marinate the tofu for extra flavor.

Pasta Choices

Feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free options.

Different shapes will hold the sauce and seasonings uniquely.

Extra Veggies

Adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can give the dish extra color and nutrients.

Vegetables offer a fresh taste and texture contrast.

Spice Level

Adjust the spiciness by altering the amount of Cajun seasoning.

Mix in red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like it hotter.

Dairy-Free Alternative

To make this dish dairy-free, consider using coconut milk or dairy-free cream for the sauce.

These alternatives can maintain creaminess without losing flavor.

Cheese Options

Although Parmesan is classic, try using Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different taste.

These cheeses introduce a unique flavor profile to the dish.

How to Store Leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Storing leftover Cajun Shrimp Pasta correctly is essential to keep it fresh and tasty.

You should place the leftovers in an airtight container as soon as possible after cooking.

Refrigerating leftovers within two hours is crucial to maintain their quality and safety.

Short-term Storage

In the refrigerator, you can safely store Cajun Shrimp Pasta for up to three to four days.

Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.

This step also helps maintain the dish’s flavors!

Long-term Storage

For longer storage, freezing is the best option.

Separate the pasta and shrimp into individual freezer bags or containers.

This method allows you to reheat just the amount you need later on!

Freezing Tips

Before freezing, double-wrap the containers with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight.

This will help retain the texture and flavor once you decide to reheat the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp

I’ve seen overcooked shrimp ruin an otherwise fantastic dish more times than I can count.

Shrimp cook quickly, usually in just a few minutes until they turn pink.

If you leave them on the heat too long, they become tough and rubbery.

Watery Sauce

A watery sauce can take the zing right out of your pasta dish.

It’s crucial to let the sauce simmer and reduce before adding the pasta.

This allows all those flavors to concentrate and create a creamy texture.

Pasta Cooking Time

Cooking your pasta correctly is just as important as keeping an eye on your shrimp.

Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente, firm to the bite.

If you overcook it, the pasta will become mushy and lose its texture in the final dish.