Cajun pasta is bold, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of meal you turn to when you want something warm and satisfying. With just the right kick of spice and a rich, smooth sauce, it hits the spot every time. Perfect for a family dinner or when you want to serve something special without the fuss.
Why We Love This Cajun Pasta
- Full-bodied, smoky flavor that wakes up your taste buds
- Creamy texture paired with spiced protein
- Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy evenings
- Minimal cleanup with one pan
- Perfect base for endless customizations
This pasta is more than food—it’s a flavorful experience. With familiar ingredients and bold twists, it’s a reliable go-to that never feels boring.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or shrimp)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For Homemade Cajun Seasoning (Optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make Cajun Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water
- Add pasta and cook until al dente
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water
2. Prepare the Protein
- Slice chicken into strips or prep your shrimp
- Coat with Cajun seasoning evenly
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Sauté protein until fully cooked, remove and set aside
3. Sauté Vegetables and Garlic
- In the same pan, add sliced peppers
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened
- Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant
4. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth
- Bring to a gentle simmer
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked pasta and protein to the pan
- Toss to coat evenly in sauce
- Use pasta water to loosen sauce if needed
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving
Expert Tips for Perfect Cajun Pasta
Master Your Cajun Pasta Game
- Use fresh Parmesan – It melts better and gives a richer flavor
- Go light on salt – Cajun seasoning already adds enough
- Control the spice – Add more or less cayenne to your taste
- Prep ingredients ahead – Keeps the cooking flow smooth
- Cook pasta just right – Al dente gives the best texture
These tips make a difference when you’re balancing spice, cream, and texture.
Cajun Pasta Variations
Delicious Ways to Customize Your Cajun Pasta
- Swap proteins – Try grilled tofu or turkey strips
- Make it vegetarian – Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini
- Use different pasta – Rotini, rigatoni, or gluten-free options
- Go lighter – Substitute half-and-half for cream
- Add heat – A dash of chili flakes or hot sauce turns it up
Personalizing your Cajun pasta keeps the dish fresh and fun every time.
Serving Suggestions for Cajun Pasta
What to Serve with Cajun Pasta
- Warm garlic bread or soft rolls
- A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans
- Lemon wedges for a touch of brightness
- Iced tea or sparkling water to cool the spice
Balanced sides round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.
More Chicken recipes you will love!
FAQs About Cajun Pasta
What is Cajun pasta made of?
It includes pasta, protein (like chicken or shrimp), bell peppers, garlic, Cajun spices, cream, broth, and Parmesan cheese.
Is Cajun pasta spicy?
Yes, it has a noticeable heat from the Cajun seasoning, but you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.
Can I make Cajun pasta without cream?
Yes. You can use coconut milk, plant-based cream, or even cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
How do I store and reheat Cajun pasta?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I make it ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. Cook the pasta and sauce separately, and combine when ready to serve for the best texture.
Cajun Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Protein
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or shrimp
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Vegetables and aromatics
- 1 medium red bell pepper sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Slice chicken into strips or prep your shrimp. Coat evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté protein until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan add sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Return cooked pasta and protein to the pan. Toss to coat evenly in sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.