Cajun Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Ingredients

• 16 ounce spaghetti
• 2 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons cajun seasonings (divided)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ cup yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ⅓ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• ½ cup pasta cooked water
• Lemon wedges (to garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large pot of salted water, cook the spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the remaining water; set aside.

2. 2

   Pat dry the shrimp with a kitchen towel and season them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, heat a large skillet with oil over medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add the shrimp and cook for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp turns pink. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.

4. 4

   To the same skillet, add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.

5. 5

   Stir in the chicken broth and deglaze the skillet, allowing the broth to simmer for a couple of minutes.

6. 6

   Add the lemon juice along with heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes.

7. 7

   Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the skillet and toss with the shrimp and sauce for 2 minutes. If needed, add the reserved pasta water and toss it.

8. 8

   Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve the Cajun shrimp scampi while it is still warm.