I have to tell you, this Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is one of the most satisfying dishes I’ve made recently. The way the shrimp, pasta, and creamy sauce come together is like magic in a bowl.
I loved the spicy kick from the blackened seasoning paired with the creamy richness of the sauce and the sweetness of corn. It’s the kind of recipe I’d gladly make on repeat because it’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it leaves my kitchen smelling amazing!
Looking for another flavorful recipe? Check out this Green Chile Chicken Smothered Burritos Recipe for a spicy and satisfying meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up this flavorful pasta dish along with a few tips to make the most of each ingredient.
- Cavatappi pasta: This curly, tubular pasta is perfect for trapping all that creamy sauce, but you can substitute it with penne or fusilli if needed.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Use raw shrimp that’s deveined and peeled. Fresh shrimp works best, but thawed frozen shrimp is a great alternative. TIP: Avoid using pre-cooked shrimp, as it doesn’t absorb seasonings as well.
- Blackened seasoning (2 tablespoons): This is the star of the dish. You can buy it pre-made or make a homemade mix if you prefer more control over the spice level.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): A small amount will help cook the shrimp and enhance the sauce flavor.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): This creates the creamy base of the sauce. You can substitute with whole milk, but it won’t be as rich.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle tomato tang and thickens the sauce naturally without needing extra flour.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Provides a tangy creaminess while balancing the spice.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Freshly grate your Parmesan to avoid clumping in the sauce. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Sweet corn (1 can, drained): The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the spices. Thawed frozen corn also works if you don’t have canned.
- Green onions (for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh pop of flavor and color.
Note: These ingredients will serve 4 people generously.
Recipe Variations for Enhancing Taste
Looking to customize your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi? Here are some ideas!
- Dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
- Protein substitutes: Replace shrimp with chicken, sausage, or even tofu for a different spin.
- Extra veggies: Add roasted bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of blackened seasoning or adding crushed red pepper flakes.
- Low-carb: Serve the sauce and shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to get this dish on the table:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
Getting started? Here’s a quick list of the tools you’ll need:
- Large pot – To cook the pasta to perfection.
- Colander – For draining the pasta.
- Large skillet – To blacken the shrimp and prepare the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring without scratching the skillet.
- Grater – For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
Making this recipe is a breeze. Follow these steps for a foolproof dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, season your shrimp with blackened seasoning, ensuring they’re coated evenly. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for about 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway. They should be golden and slightly crisp on the outside. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the pan as the cream simmers. Stir in the tomato paste, sour cream, and grated Parmesan. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sweet corn into the skillet with the sauce. Toss until everything is well combined and coated in the creamy goodness. Adjust seasoning if needed, and add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and garnish generously with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy this restaurant-quality meal at home!
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my experience, here are a few personal tips that can take this dish to the next level:
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help them sear better.
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce.
- If you love garlic, add minced garlic to the sauce for more depth.
- For an extra smoky flavor, lightly roast the corn before adding it to the sauce.
- Don’t skip the green onions! They really brighten up the dish.
How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
This dish looks as impressive as it tastes, so presentation counts. Serve it in a large shallow bowl for easy tossing. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan, fresh green onions, or even a little parsley. A glass of white wine or sparkling water pairs beautifully with the meal. For sides, consider garlic bread, a simple garden salad, or roasted veggies.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 518
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 25g
What is the proper way to store food?
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream-based sauce can separate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a winner for several reasons:
- Quick and easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to match your preferences or dietary needs.
- Restaurant-quality: The flavors feel indulgent, like something you’d order out.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters love the creamy, slightly spicy combination.
- Great leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Pre-cooked shrimp don’t absorb the seasoning as well. If you must use them, add them to the sauce just to warm through.
What’s a substitute for blackened seasoning?
You can create your own mix using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be a fantastic addition.