Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a bold and flavorful pasta dish that combines smoky, spicy blackened shrimp with creamy sauce and perfectly cooked cavatappi noodles. The spiral shape of the pasta holds onto every bit of the rich seasoning and sauce, making each bite irresistible. It’s a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and a little bit fancy—ideal for a weeknight indulgence or entertaining guests.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cavatappi pastalarge shrimp (peeled and deveined)blackening seasoningolive oilgarlicheavy creamParmesan cheesebutterlemon juicefresh parsley (for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Toss the shrimp with blackening seasoning until evenly coated.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove shrimp and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream, stir in Parmesan cheese, and simmer until the sauce thickens.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and drizzle with lemon juice.

Garnish with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use Cajun seasoning for a slightly different flavor twist.

Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and color.

Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops if preferred.

Use a splash of white wine in the sauce for added depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What is blackening seasoning?

It’s a blend of spices including paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper used to coat meats before searing.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning.

Is cavatappi the only pasta that works?

No, you can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on your blackening seasoning—adjust to taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I prepare this ahead?

You can cook the pasta and shrimp in advance, but it’s best assembled fresh for optimal texture.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, for the best texture and appearance, devein the shrimp before cooking.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s better to use raw shrimp to achieve the blackened flavor during cooking.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese to avoid curdling.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi brings together the richness of a creamy pasta with the boldness of blackened spices, offering a deliciously balanced dish that’s sure to please. With just the right amount of heat and creaminess, it’s a perfect choice for a memorable meal any night of the week.

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