Creamy Cajun Shrimp Protein Pasta

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550

A flavorful, protein-packed pasta dish with spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp and a creamy sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

8 ounces protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or high-protein wheat penne or rotini)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or seafood broth
1/2 cup half-and-half or light cream
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%)
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan (plus more for serving)
2 to 2 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), divided
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
to taste salt and black pepper Salt and black pepper
1/2 lemon juice of 1/2 lemon (plus wedges for serving)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or scallions, for garnish

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Toss shrimp with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté in olive oil and butter until pink, then set aside.
Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened; add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Add broth, simmer briefly; then stir in half-and-half and Parmesan until smooth. Temper Greek yogurt with warm sauce, then mix into the skillet.
Combine pasta and shrimp with sauce; loosen with reserved pasta water if needed. Add lemon juice, adjust seasonings, garnish with parsley or scallions, and serve.

For extra heat, increase red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning to taste.

Calories: 550kcal

Cost: $15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: shrimp