Cajun Shrimp Scampi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor – Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick to the traditional scampi sauce.
• One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more convenience.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home – A dish that feels fancy but is easy to make.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Cajun seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• Chicken broth or white wine
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the shrimp – Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
3. Sauté the shrimp – Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the sauce – In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Combine everything – Add cooked pasta to the pan, along with lemon juice and the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together to coat in the sauce.
6. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan (if using), and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Extra Creamy – Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
• Cheesy Twist – Mix in Parmesan or shredded mozzarella for extra richness.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta or swap for spaghetti squash.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair works best.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Use a mild Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes.

Can I substitute the white wine?

Yes, chicken broth is a great alternative.

What side dishes pair well with Cajun Shrimp Scampi?

Garlic bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables complement it well.

How do I prevent shrimp from getting rubbery?

Avoid overcooking—shrimp should be pink and opaque but still tender.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer a bit longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Yes! Grilled Cajun shrimp adds a smoky depth of flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a fast, flavorful, and slightly spicy take on a classic dish. It’s easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. Whether served over pasta, rice, or a low-carb alternative, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try it today!

Cajun Shrimp Scampi

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a bold and spicy twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a garlicky, buttery Cajun sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over pasta, rice, or a low-carb alternative for a restaurant-quality dish at home!

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5min
• Cook Time: 15min
• Total Time: 20min
• Yield: 4servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan
• Cuisine: Cajun, Italian

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• ½ cup chicken broth or white wine
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season the Shrimp – Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
3️⃣ Sauté the Shrimp – Heat 1 tbsp butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5️⃣ Combine Everything – Add cooked pasta, lemon juice, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
6️⃣ Serve & Garnish – Sprinkle with fresh parsley, Parmesan (if using), and extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!