Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Bread

Shopping list

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

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• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

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• 2 tbsp olive oil

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• 2 tbsp butter

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• 3 cloves garlic, minced

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• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning

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• 1 tsp smoked paprika

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• 0.5 tsp onion powder

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• 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

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• 1 cup heavy cream

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• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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• 2 tbsp tomato paste

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• 0.5 cup reserved pasta water

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• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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• Salt and black pepper

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• 4 slices thick slices Italian or French bread

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• 3 tbsp softened butter

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• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

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• 0.25 cup shredded Parmesan or mozzarella

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Step by step

1. 1

   Boil the linguine in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining for perfect pasta texture.

2. 2

   Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil and butter until opaque with lightly caramelized edges.

3. 3

   Sauté the garlic briefly, then stir in tomato paste, heavy cream, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Add reserved pasta water as needed until smooth.

4. 4

   Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce, tossing until everything is generously coated. Finish with chopped parsley.

5. 5

   Spread the bread with butter, garlic, parsley, and cheese, then toast until deeply golden with crisp edges. Serve beside the pasta.