Cajun Shrimp Scampi

Cajun shrimp scampi is a quick and easy meal that’s loaded with flavor! You can serve it with crusty Italian bread, pasta, or rice.

I love classic shrimp scampi but this Cajun shrimp scampi is so much more flavorful. It’s spicy, garlicky, and perfectly seasoned.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s super versatile, you can add spinach, bell peppers, onions, etc.
• Omit the pasta and you have a low carb and keto-friendly meal.
• Perfect for date night or a special occasion.
• Cooks in under 30 minutes!

Ingredient Notes

• Shrimp – You can use fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe, just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely. I highly recommend using raw peeled and deveined shrimp.
• Cajun Seasoning – Store-bought or homemade is fine.
• Garlic – Use fresh for best results.
• White Wine – Use good quality wine. I recommend a dry white wine such as pinot grigio or chardonnay. Avoid fruity wines like Moscato. If you don’t consume alcohol, you may use chicken stock instead.
• Lemon – Adds so much flavor!
• Butter – Use unsalted.
• Pasta – I used bucatini but feel free to use spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine.
• Capers – Optional.

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Stir the shrimp and cook for 30 seconds on each side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Add the butter, garlic, and red crushed pepper to the skillet and cook for 20 seconds.
3. Stir in the white wine, lemon juice, and capers. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 10-15 minutes.
4. While the sauce cooks, cook the pasta according to packaging instructions and reserve some pasta water.
5. Stir in the pasta water and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the butter and cook for 20 seconds.
6. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp and mix well. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Top Tips

• Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 10 minutes so it reduces by half and thickens.
• Not a fan of shrimp? Use chicken, lobster, or scallops instead!
• Taste the sauce and add more seasoning if needed.
• Want it spicy? Add extra red crushed pepper, cayenne pepper, and green chilies.

Storage

Place any leftovers in an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

More Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
• Southern Fried Shrimp
• Baked Shrimp Scampi
• Fried Coconut Shrimp

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