Cajun Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

Cajun shrimp scampi is a zesty and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a Cajun-spiced garlic butter sauce, creating a spicy and savory seafood delight. Served over linguine, it's a quick and satisfying meal with a Cajun twist.

Cajun cuisine meets shrimp scampi in this delicious pasta recipe. Can we talk about how this flavor fusion is out of this world? We love big bold flavors with a little bit of spice and this recipe brings just that.

The sauce is buttery, garlicky, and spicy. This pasta dish is extremely easy to make and is perfect for a date night dinner at home. It's sure to impress anyone. Serve with some roasted vegetables and crusty bread for a complete meal that can be made in less than 30 minutes. 

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works 
• You're Going to Love Cajun Shrimp Scampi Because... 
• How Spicy is Cajun Shrimp Scampi? 
• Ingredients 
• How to Make Cajun Shrimp Scampi 
• Make Your Own Cajun Seasoning 
• Tips for Making Cajun Shrimp Scampi 
• Must Try Variations 
• Storing and Reheating 
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• Cajun Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

Why This Recipe Works 

Cajun shrimp scampi works exceptionally well because it combines the bold and spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with the rich and garlicky essence of traditional scampi. When combined you're left with a harmonious balance of heat and savory goodness. The Cajun spice adds depth and excitement to the succulent shrimp, making it a flavorful dish with a Southern twist.

You're Going to Love Cajun Shrimp Scampi Because... 

Bold Flavor Profile: There's nothing bland about this recipe. You get the heat of Cajun spices with the richness of garlic and butter, creating a blend of savory and spicy goodness.

Quick and Easy: This dish is a go-to for us on busy weeknights. There's no lengthy preparation and the shrimp cooks quick. The sauce and the noodles take the most time once the noodles are done, they get tossed into the large skillet with the sauce and voila the easy dinner recipe is ready. 

Perfect for Spice Lovers: If you like spice as much as we do, you're going to love this. Spice comes from the cajun seasoning and the hot sauce. You can modify the spice easier by using a homemade cajun seasoning and the hot sauce of your choice. 

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Cajun shrimp scampi is a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen, allowing you to impress guests or enjoy a gourmet meal without the need for extensive culinary skills.

Customizable: You can easily customize this pasta dish. Adjust the level of spice by making your own cajun seasoning or avoid hot sauce. Add some veggies you have on hand or substitute the shrimp for chicken. There are so many ways to make this recipe your own. We will get into more ideas on this later on. 

How Spicy is Cajun Shrimp Scampi? 

The spiciness of this Cajun shrimp scampi depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Some are more spicy than others while if you make your own you have control over this.

As it is written with no modifications, using an average brand seasoning, I would give this a spicy level of 5/10. I didn't think it was too bad at all and the hot sauce I used was a Tabasco which is on the lower end of spice level.

On the other hand I love and enjoy spicy foods and so my tolerance might be higher than yours. If you're sensitive to spice, err on the side of caution and taste as you go. I also found that the pasta, and butter sauce does tone it down a little bit.

Ingredients 

Linguine - Commonly used in shrimp scampi. You can substitute spaghetti or angel hair pasta instead. 

Butter - Used to cook the garlic and shrimp. Also used at the end to thicken the sauce and bring all the ingredients together. Also helps the sauce bind to the pasta. 

Cajun seasoning - I highly recommend either making your own or choosing your favorite brand. This is going to bring all the flavor to the juicy shrimp pasta. 

Extra large shrimp - Jumbo shrimp can be used. I highly recommend using fresh over frozen so you can ensure there will be no weird after taste. Keep in mind shrimp shrink as they cook so opting for larger shrimp will be best in this cajun shrimp recipe. 

Garlic - Fresh garlic is a must. You can't have scampi without this flavorful ingredient. 

White wine - Used for the base of the sauce and helps to deglaze the pan after the shrimp cook. Many recipes only use a dash of white wine but I love how much it adds to the sauce. I suggest going with a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio for the best flavor. 

Chicken broth - Also used as the base of the sauce. Don't want to add more sodium to the dish? You can substitute with pasta water. Keep in mind this might make the creamy sauce a little bland. You may need a little touch of salt. 

Hot sauce - Use the hot sauce of your choice. This one ingredient elevates the dish so much. Taste before adding. If it already has the right amount of kick for your preference, you're welcome to leave it out. 

Fresh lemon - The juice from 1/2 a lemon is used to finish the cooked pasta and sauce. It's the perfect finishing touch and adds just enough tanginess. 

Garnish: 

Fresh parsley - Used to finish the pasta and is the perfect finishing touch to the final presentation. 

How to Make Cajun Shrimp Scampi 

Step 1. Cook linguine according to the package directions then drain. Set aside. 

Step 2. While the linguine is cooking, place raw shrimps in a small bowl with 2 1/2 teaspoons cajun seasoning. Toss shrimp until all are evenly coated in the cajun seasoning. 

Step 3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of butter. Make sure the butter doesn't burn. 

Step 4. Once the butter has melted add garlic and shrimp and cook for around 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside until later. 

Step 5. Deglaze the pan with white wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes until reduced by half.

Step 6. Reduce heat to low and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until melted to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes. 

Step 7. Add linguine and stir until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. 

Step 8. Add back shrimp, stir in hot sauce, lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately. 

Make Your Own Cajun Seasoning 

To make a homemade Cajun seasoning, combine 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat (adjust to taste), and salt and black pepper to your preference. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and store the Cajun seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Adjust the cayenne pepper to reduce the spicy kick according to your preference for a personalized Cajun seasoning mix.

Tips for Making Cajun Shrimp Scampi 

Fresh Ingredients: Start with fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the shrimp. Fresh shrimp will have a much better flavor and texture.

Prep Ahead: Mise en place! Have all your ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to go before you start cooking. This will ensure a smooth and quick cooking process. When you start cooking, everything will come together pretty quickly, so this is very important. 

Don't Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be vigilant to avoid overcooking. They are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually within 2-3 minutes per side.

Sautéing Technique: Use a hot pan for a quick sear on the shrimp. High heat helps to achieve a nice caramelization while keeping the shrimp tender. If the pan has a lower heat, the shrimp risk being rubbery. 

Must Try Variations 

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Scampi: If you prefer a creamy sauce, consider adding an additional tbsp of butter and some sprinkles of flour to the pan after the shrimp have been removed. Still until well combined before deglazing the pan for a thicker sauce. Finish with parmesan cheese and a little heavy cream for a rich cream sauce. 

Cajun Shrimp Scampi with Vegetables: Add a variety of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach to the Cajun shrimp scampi for a colorful and nutritious variation.

Cajun Shrimp Scampi Pizza: Skip the pasta and transform Cajun shrimp scampi into a pizza topping. Spread the shrimp over pizza dough with mozzarella cheese and bake for a Cajun-inspired pizza.

Cajun Shrimp Scampi with Grits: Skip the linguine and serve Cajun shrimp scampi over a bed of creamy Southern-style grits for a comforting and soulful twist on this classic dish.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Scampi Wraps: Roll Cajun shrimp scampi in large lettuce leaves or tortillas with avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream for a lighter, low carb option. 

Storing and Reheating 

To store Cajun shrimp scampi, transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, place in a microwave safe dish. Add a little chicken broth. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30 seconds then stir. Repeat until fully heated through. Be cautious not to overheat the shrimp to preserve their tenderness. 

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