This Blackened Shrimp Pasta is a tasty mix of spicy shrimp and creamy pasta. With a burst of flavor from the blackened spices, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!
What I love most is how quick it comes together. Perfect for those busy nights when you still want something fancy. Pair it with a salad, and you’re all set for a delightful meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using linguine, but fettuccine works well too! If you’re gluten-free, try using chickpea or lentil pasta for a protein boost. It cooks up nicely and tastes fantastic!
Shrimp: For the best flavor, go for large, fresh shrimp if possible. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, chicken breast can be a great substitute. Just slice it thin and sauté it until cooked through.
Spices: Paprika gives a beautiful color and flavor. If you want a smoky twist, smoked paprika is a great choice! If you like it hot, feel free to increase the cayenne or add some diced jalapeños.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk are good substitutes. Coconut milk will add a slight sweetness, which can be nice!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting, but pre-grated works in a pinch. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if you’re vegan!
How Do I Perfectly Blacken Shrimp?
Blackening shrimp is all about developing that rich, dark crust. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure to dry the shrimp well with paper towels. This helps the spices stick and ensures a good sear.
- Heat your skillet properly before adding the shrimp. A hot pan is key for that blackened look!
- Sear them in batches if your skillet is small. Overcrowding can steam instead of sear.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let the shrimp sit to develop that nice crust, then flip and cook the other side.
If you follow these tips, your shrimp will be beautifully blackened and full of flavor!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Blackening Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackened Shrimp Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and seasoning the shrimp, followed by another 15-20 minutes to cook the shrimp and make the creamy sauce. It’s an easy and quick dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your linguine or fettuccine pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Blackening Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give the shrimp a wonderful flavor!
3. Season and Sear the Shrimp:
Using paper towels, pat the shrimp dry to ensure they fry well. Toss the shrimp in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then coat them evenly with the blackening seasoning. Next, heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and sear the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and nicely blackened. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
With the shrimp out, reduce the heat to medium, and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to mix everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper as needed. If you like a bit of extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
6. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Finally, return the blackened shrimp to the pan, distributing them on top of the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately!
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy Blackened Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, pat them dry and proceed with the seasoning.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or add extra red pepper flakes in the sauce for more heat. If you’re adventurous, try adding some diced jalapeños for a fresh kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works well as a substitute, or you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that coconut milk will add a slight sweetness to the dish.
