Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Recipe

If you are craving a dinner that combines bold flavors and comforting creaminess, look no further than this Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi. This dish delivers a beautiful balance between the smoky, spicy blackened shrimp and the rich, luscious Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly al dente cavatappi pasta. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, from the tender shrimp to the slightly chewy pasta, making it an irresistible meal you’ll want to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi will become a new favorite in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi’s incredible flavor lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a simple but essential role, whether adding a spicy kick, a creamy richness, or a vibrant fresh finish, making the entire dish truly memorable.

• 8 oz cavatappi pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds onto sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness.
• Salt (for boiling water): Enhances the pasta’s flavor right from the start.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and ready to soak up bold spices.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices stick to the shrimp and creates a delicious sear.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky depth that’s vital to the blackening spice mix.
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: Brings the spicy heat—adjust this to your personal taste!
• 1 tsp garlic powder: A quick, aromatic boost that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Adds savory notes that round out the seasoning.
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Offers subtle herbal undertones that elevate the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a silky base for the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a lively aroma and flavor punch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy sauce that ties everything together.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce perfectly.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: A bright garnish that adds freshness and color.
• Lemon wedges: Provide a zesty contrast and a hint of brightness to every bite.

How to Make Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This salty water is your pasta’s first seasoning secret. Add the cavatappi and cook it until it reaches a perfect al dente texture according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, ready to marry with that luscious sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While your pasta is cooking, toss the peeled shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. This spice mixture is what transforms ordinary shrimp into bold, blackened stars of the dish. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated to get that intense, smoky flavor.

Step 3: Blacken the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink, opaque, and show those gorgeous blackened specks from the spices. Then, carefully remove the shrimp and set them aside while you create the sauce in the same skillet, soaking up those delicious browned bits.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue simmering until the sauce thickens just enough to coat your pasta and shrimp delightfully.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked cavatappi and blackened shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together until each noodle is luxuriously coated in the Parmesan cream sauce. Let it cook together for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors can mingle and the dish is heated through. This step melds all those incredible flavors into one harmonious plate.

How to Serve Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a pop of color and a mild herbal freshness that keeps the dish bright. Don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side—squeezing their juice over the pasta just before eating brings a perfect tangy contrast to the creamy, spicy shrimp.

Side Dishes

This bold pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some buttery garlic bread. These accompaniments balance the intensity of the Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi and round out the meal for a satisfying feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi in individual shallow bowls, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges arranged around the edges. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can also elevate the look and add a touch of elegance for guests or special family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent next-day lunch or quick dinner option without losing much of its fresh flavor.

Freezing

While freezing this dish is possible, the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze it, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and consume within 1 to 2 months for best taste and quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce looks too thick. This method helps restore the creamy texture without drying out the shrimp or pasta.

FAQs

Can I make the Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi less spicy?

Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the blackening seasoning, and you can also adjust the paprika to a milder version. This way, you maintain the smoky flavor without as much heat.

What can I substitute for cavatappi pasta?

If you don’t have cavatappi, other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli work wonderfully as they also hold onto sauce well and offer similar texture and bite.

Is this dish suitable for weeknight cooking?

Yes, the entire recipe can come together in about 30 minutes, making Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi a flavorful yet quick option for busy weeknights when you want something special without a ton of fuss.

Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?

You can season the shrimp a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated, but for the best flavor and texture, blacken and cook them just before assembling the dish.

What wine pairs well with Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi?

A crisp, refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the spicy shrimp and creamy sauce beautifully by cutting through the richness and balancing the heat.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and approachable, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in. The combination of smoky, spicy shrimp and creamy, cheesy sauce over fun, curly pasta never gets old. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your dinner lineup!

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