Creamy Cajun Linguine is a rich, spicy, and satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the silky decadence of a creamy pasta sauce. With a touch of heat and a burst of smokiness, it’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and flavor from the very first bite. The linguine noodles serve as the perfect vessel for this luscious sauce, while tender bites of seared chicken or shrimp (your choice!) add a satisfying texture and protein punch.

This dish is ideal for anyone craving something indulgent yet easy to make. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for casual guests, Creamy Cajun Linguine is both impressive and incredibly doable. The beauty lies in its balance: the spice is mellowed by cream, the garlic and parmesan elevate the flavor, and the peppery finish leaves your palate craving the next forkful.

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Linguine

12 oz linguine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts or 10 oz shrimp, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (more to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cracked black pepper (optional, for topping)

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Protein

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken or shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the protein in the skillet until fully cooked—about 5–7 minutes for chicken or 3–4 minutes for shrimp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add the butter and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return the cooked protein to the skillet, followed by the drained linguine. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your liking.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a few cracks of black pepper for extra flavor. Enjoy the creamy, spicy, and savory comfort of this Cajun-inspired pasta masterpiece.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: ~630
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg

(Note: Nutrition may vary depending on choice of protein and exact ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well with this sauce. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

2. Is it very spicy?

It has a mild kick. You can reduce or increase the Cajun seasoning depending on your spice preference.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try substituting with full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan, but the texture and taste may slightly change.

4. What’s the best protein to use?

Chicken breast, shrimp, or even sausage pair beautifully. You could also make it vegetarian by using mushrooms or tofu.

5. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and protein in advance. Just store the sauce separately and combine before serving.

6. Why did my sauce separate?

Overheating cream or adding cheese too quickly can cause separation. Stir slowly over low heat for best results.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes are popular and delicious additions.

8. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer uncovered a bit longer or stir in a bit more Parmesan cheese.

Creamy Cajun Linguine: A Bold & Comforting Classic

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving something bold, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful? This Creamy Cajun Linguine is the answer. Perfectly cooked linguine is bathed in a rich, velvety sauce infused with Cajun spices, garlic, and Parmesan, then tossed with tender bites of seared chicken or shrimp. It’s the ultimate comfort food that delivers on both taste and texture. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, a quick weeknight meal, or new pasta food ideas, this dish hits every mark. With its mix of creaminess and spice, this easy recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table in under 30 minutes.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken or shrimp with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. Cook until done. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
Add cream and broth. Simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in butter and Parmesan until sauce thickens.
Return protein to skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss to coat, adding pasta water if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley and cracked pepper.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner