Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a dish that not only stands out for its vibrant colors but also for its incredible blend of flavors. Imagine tender shrimp, perfectly coated in smoky blackened seasoning, paired with corkscrew pasta that captures every drop of a luscious, creamy sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and a little kick of spice, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. You can expect an in-depth experience of taste and texture, where sweet corn adds a delightful crunch to the rich creaminess of the sauce. In just around 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that impresses family and friends.
What sets Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi apart is its versatility. While the combination of ingredients provides a fantastic foundation, you can easily make this dish your own by swapping out pasta shapes, adjusting the spice level, or even incorporating additional veggies. The dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s also about the joy of creating something truly scrumptious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you are new to cooking or consider yourself a kitchen wizard, this recipe caters to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone enjoys a delicious meal without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
- Quick & Easy: This recipe is ready to serve in about 25 minutes, making it a great option for a hectic weeknight dinner.
- Comforting & Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce with smoky blackened shrimp offers the right amount of spice that warms the heart and soul.
- Versatile: Easily swap out the pasta, adjust the seasoning, or add more vegetables to cater to your taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start cooking this delicious Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi, it’s important to gather your ingredients and tools. To ensure a seamless cooking experience, have your large pot and skillet ready. Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a boil for cooking the cavatappi. A slotted spoon or a spider strainer will make it easy to remove the pasta once it’s cooked. You’ll also need a large skillet to prepare the shrimp and sauce. If you have a spatula or wooden spoon, that will help with stirring the ingredients in the skillet. Having everything prepped and measured will allow you to cook efficiently without any interruptions. Don’t forget to set your serving dishes ready; you’ll want to dive into this delightful dish as soon as it’s ready!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cavatappi pasta
- 1 lb large raw shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package directions, typically about 8-9 minutes, until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still has a slight bite to it, which is important for holding up in the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, take your raw shrimp and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the shrimp, making sure each piece is fully coated. This seasoning is the star of your dish, providing a smoky flavor and a hint of heat that will elevate the entire meal.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, ensuring that they have plenty of space and are not crowded. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This cooking time ensures that your shrimp will be juicy and tender. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and in the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Make sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan; these bits add flavor to your sauce. Stir in the tomato paste, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is smooth and combined. This creamy base is why this dish is so comforting.
Step 5: Bring it Together
Now that your sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sweet corn into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the creamy sauce. The sweet corn will add a nice crunch and balance the flavors of the dish.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, it’s time to serve! Garnish your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Variations
- Protein: Swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of blackened seasoning to make it spicier or milder, depending on your preference.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly deveined for even cooking.
- For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a delightful dining experience.
Tips
- When cooking shrimp, avoid overcooking to prevent a rubbery texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 550 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk. However, the sauce will be thinner.
Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Just reheat before serving.
What pasta shapes work well with this recipe?
Cavatappi is ideal, but other shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini will also hold the sauce nicely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines various flavors and textures into one delightful dish. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and chewy pasta create a comforting yet exciting dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with us in the comments, and feel free to experiment with the variations to make it your own!
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Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a dish that not only stands out for its vibrant colors but also for its incredible blend of flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cavatappi pasta
- 1 lb large raw shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package directions, typically about 8-9 minutes, until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still has a slight bite to it, which is important for holding up in the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta cooks, take your raw shrimp and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the shrimp, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Using a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, ensuring that they have plenty of space and are not crowded. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and in the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan; these bits add flavor to your sauce. Stir in the tomato paste, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is smooth and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sweet corn into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!
Notes
Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly deveined for even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g