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Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Recipe

Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

This Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish featuring perfectly seasoned shrimp blackened to a smoky heat, tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce with al dente cavatappi pasta. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner packed with bold spices and comforting textures.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz cavatappi pasta
  • Salt (for boiling water)

For the Blackened Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly.
  3. Blacken the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Combine: Add the cooked cavatappi and blackened shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  6. Serve: Divide the Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi among plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it might be less creamy.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the cream sauce at its best consistency.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened shrimp pasta, spicy shrimp cavatappi, creamy shrimp pasta, blackened shrimp recipe, easy pasta dinner

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/spicy-blackened-shrimp-cavatappi-recipe/