Description
This Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a fusion of classic Italian scampi with bold Cajun flavors, featuring plump shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it brings together vibrant flavors and comfort in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
8 ounces linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente
- Season the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside
- Build the Sauce: Add remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant
- Deglaze and Simmer: Add broth and lemon juice, scrape up browned bits, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Adjust with pasta water if needed
- Return Shrimp and Finish: Fold shrimp back in and add parsley. Toss gently
- Serve Immediately: Adjust seasoning and garnish before serving
Notes
Do not overcook the shrimp to maintain tenderness.
Use fresh, minced garlic for best flavor.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: unknown
- Trans Fat: unknown
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 220mg