Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

introduction

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi blends rich flavors with comforting pasta. This dish combines juicy shrimp seasoned to perfection with creamy sauce and fun-shaped cavatappi. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare.

why make this recipe

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The blackening spices give the shrimp a wonderful kick, while the creamy sauce balances the flavors. Plus, the cavatappi pasta adds a delightful twist to the classic shrimp dish. Whether you are a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe delivers great taste in simple steps.

how to make Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cavatappi pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season shrimp with blackening seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and corn, and stir to combine. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the cooked cavatappi to the sauce and stir to coat.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently mixing everything together.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

how to serve Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Serve the Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi hot. You can enjoy it on its own or with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. For a more festive presentation, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

how to store Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

To store leftovers, place the Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

• Make your own blackening seasoning for a fresher taste.
• If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
• Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

variation

For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. You can also use whole wheat cavatappi for a healthier pasta choice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. What other types of pasta can I use?
You can substitute cavatappi with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them when ready to eat for optimal taste.

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

A delicious blend of juicy blackened shrimp, creamy sauce, and fun-shaped cavatappi pasta.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Shrimp

• 8 oz cavatappi pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning

Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Seasoning and Garnish

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Cooking Shrimp

1. Season shrimp with blackening seasoning, then add to the skillet.
2. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and corn, and stir to combine.
2. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cooked cavatappi to the sauce and stir to coat.
4. Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently mixing everything together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

1. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve hot, optionally with garlic bread and a salad. For a festive presentation, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.