Cajun Shrimp Scampi
A bold and flavorful Cajun shrimp scampi that combines tender shrimp with a buttery, garlicky saucebrightened by fresh lemon and a touch of heat. Tossed with pasta and finished with parmesan andherbs, it’s a rich, satisfying dish with just the right balance of spice, acidity, and depth.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb pasta
- 1.5 cups chicken stock (can substitute with white wine)
- 2 lemons or 2 oz lemon juice
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp capers (optional)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper (or Flatiron Four Pepper Blend — adjust carefully)
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- 6 tsp Cajun seasoning (to taste)
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parmesan, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook about 30 seconds per side, then remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil, 2 tbsp butter, garlic, and red pepper to the skillet. Cook about 20 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken stock (or white wine), lemon juice, and capers. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 10–15 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Stir pasta water into the sauce and cook 1 minute. Add remaining butter and stir until melted.
- Add pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss until fully coated.
- Garnish with parmesan and parsley before serving.
