Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta at the end of a long day. But when you combine tender cavatappi noodles with juicy blackened shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce, you get something far more exciting than your average dinner. Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi isn’t just a meal—it’s a warm hug with a Cajun twist.

This dish brings me back to warm summer nights in New Orleans, where the scent of blackened spices danced through the air, and seafood was always the centerpiece of every gathering. The boldness of the seasoning, the creaminess of the sauce, and the cheerful curls of the cavatappi pasta make it a show-stopper—yet it’s still easy enough for a cozy night in.

Whether you’re craving comfort or want to impress someone with your cooking chops, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver. It’s perfect for spice lovers, seafood fans, and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Pasta:
8 oz cavatappi pasta
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated parmesan
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
Juice of ½ lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatappi according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil and all the spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper) until well coated.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and lightly blackened. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pasta
Whisk in the grated parmesan and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens (about 3–5 minutes). Add red pepper flakes for more heat if desired. Toss in the cooked cavatappi and stir to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Squeeze in the lemon juice, return the shrimp to the pan, and toss everything together. Heat for another minute to combine the flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your spicy blackened shrimp cavatappi, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot. Each bite is creamy, spicy, and loaded with bold flavor.

Notes

Substitute cavatappi with penne or fusilli if needed.
Add sautéed bell peppers for a burst of color and sweetness.
To make it dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan.

Nutrition

Calories: 520