Serves: 2 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
This Cajun Shrimp Scampi recipe combines succulent shrimp and flavorful Cajun spices in a buttery garlic sauce. Tossed with linguine, it’s a perfect dish for a quick yet luxurious dinner!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
12 raw shrimp (or more, depending on preference)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Scampi Sauce:
1 serving of linguine (or your preferred pasta)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup white wine (optional, substitute with chicken broth for non-alcoholic)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Season and Cook the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet.
Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and fresh parsley, stirring to combine.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss in the scampi sauce.
Add the drained linguine and toss to coat, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun spices, salt, or pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the Cajun Shrimp Scampi hot, garnished with more parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Pair with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works
Perfect Blend of Flavors: The bold Cajun seasoning complements the garlic butter sauce, creating a robust, zesty dish.
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner plans.
Versatile: Can be made with any type of pasta and allows for customization with additional veggies or proteins.
Tips for Recipe Success
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid a rubbery texture.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
Wine Adds Depth: Use a dry white wine for a classic scampi flavor, but chicken broth works just as well for a non-alcoholic version.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, parsley, and garlic enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dish: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Beverage Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
With its bold Cajun flavors and rich, buttery garlic sauce, this Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Treat yourself to this indulgent yet simple dish today! 🍤✨