Name: Creamy Cajun Linguine Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb chicken or shrimp (optional), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); ½ cup reserved pasta water

Description

Creamy Cajun Linguine is a rich and spicy pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With perfectly cooked linguine coated in a luscious Cajun-spiced cream sauce, this recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors balanced with the comforting creaminess of Parmesan. Add chicken, shrimp, or your favorite protein for a heartier meal, or keep it simple for a classic pasta night. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

12 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken or shrimp (optional), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or shrimp (if using), season with a pinch of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until cooked through, then remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and return the cooked protein to the pan (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes