If you’re craving a restaurant-worthy seafood pasta dish that’s bold, creamy, and unforgettable, then this Cajun seafood pasta is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy shrimp, tender lobster, and a spicy, flavorful cream sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, a special date night, or impressing guests, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Seafood Pasta
There’s something irresistible about the combination of Cajun spices and seafood. The smoky heat of the Cajun seasoning pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of shrimp and lobster, while the creamy sauce balances everything with richness. Toss it with pasta, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Here’s why this dish stands out:
Restaurant quality at home: Lobster and shrimp make this feel like fine dining.
Flavor explosion: Cajun spices, garlic, and smoked paprika create layers of flavor.
Creamy yet spicy: The sauce is smooth and rich, with just the right amount of kick.
Versatile: You can adjust the spice level or swap in different seafood.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Seafood:
1 lobster tail, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Juice of ½ lemon
Chopped parsley, for garnish
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
For the Pasta:
8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
Salt (for boiling water)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain, set aside, and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Seafood
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and lobster, seasoning them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and the lobster is cooked through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seafood, remove it from the skillet, and set aside.
- Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. If you like extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Combine Everything
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce, coating it evenly. Add the shrimp and lobster back into the pan, stirring until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Serve & Enjoy
Plate the pasta and top with extra seafood pieces. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy this decadent seafood delight.
Tips for the Best Cajun Seafood Pasta
Use fresh seafood whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
Cook the seafood separately so it doesn’t overcook when simmering in the sauce.
Don’t over-thicken the sauce: It should coat the pasta but remain creamy.
Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Try different pasta shapes: Penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti all work beautifully.
🍋 What to Serve With Cajun Seafood Pasta
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing it with:
🥗 Fresh green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette
🥖 Garlic bread to soak up the sauce
🌽 Roasted or grilled vegetables
🍷 A crisp, refreshing drink like sparkling water, grape juice, or white wine
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Note: Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce and pasta may lose their texture.
⚡ Nutrition Facts (per serving, 4 servings total)
Calories: ~620
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Cholesterol: 195 mg
Sodium: 950 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g
👩🍳 Final Thoughts
This Cajun Seafood Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory. With tender shrimp, juicy lobster, and a luxurious Cajun cream sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether for a date night, a cozy dinner, or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress every time!
