Creamy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Cooking can be a bit intimidating, especially when you’re just starting out in the kitchen. But there’s something about a simple, one-pan dish that brings all the comfort of a restaurant meal without the complexity. I’ll never forget the first time I made creamy blackened shrimp cavatappi—it felt like magic! The smoky shrimp, the rich, creamy sauce, and the perfectly cooked pasta all came together in under 30 minutes. This dish is the perfect introduction to cooking for beginners because it combines easy steps, minimal prep, and a burst of flavor that will make you feel like a culinary expert.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even a small dinner party, this creamy blackened shrimp cavatappi is a surefire way to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and how to make it!

Why This Recipe is Special

Easy to Make

This dish is perfect for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by complicated recipes. The blackened shrimp adds tons of flavor without needing a lot of intricate steps. You only need a couple of pans—one for the pasta and one for the shrimp and sauce. Clean-up is quick, too!

Bold and Creamy Flavor

The secret to the rich flavor in this dish is the homemade blackened seasoning and creamy sauce. The blackened shrimp is smoky, slightly spicy, and perfectly complements the creamy, tangy tomato-based sauce. Together, these elements create a well-rounded and indulgent flavor that feels luxurious but is easy to make.

Customizable

Don’t have shrimp on hand? No problem! You can easily swap the shrimp for chicken, sausage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version. You can also use any type of pasta you have available—penne, fusilli, or rotini would all work wonderfully.

Quick Cooking Time

In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s as satisfying as anything you’d find at a high-end seafood restaurant, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Their Role

This dish has a straightforward list of ingredients, each playing an important role in creating a balanced, delicious meal. Let’s break down the ingredients and what they bring to the table.

• Pasta: Cavatappi is the pasta of choice because its spiral shape holds the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have cavatappi, you can easily substitute it with penne, fusilli, or rotini.
• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined shrimp are the star of this dish. The blackened seasoning gives the shrimp a smoky flavor, and when cooked properly, they have a firm yet tender texture.
• Blackened Seasoning: This is a smoky, slightly spicy mix of spices that coats the shrimp, adding depth and complexity to the dish. You can buy a pre-made mix or create your own.
• Butter: A rich, buttery base for cooking the shrimp, adding both flavor and richness.
• Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce velvety smooth and indulgent. For a lighter version, you could use whole milk or half-and-half.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a deep, slightly sweet tomato flavor, helping to thicken the sauce and enhance the richness.
• Sour Cream: This adds a creamy, tangy note that balances the heat from the blackened seasoning. You could also use Greek yogurt as a substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese: A key ingredient for adding nutty, salty flavor to the sauce. Freshly grated parmesan melts best.
• Corn: Adds a pop of sweetness and texture. You can use canned, frozen, or fresh corn—whichever you prefer or have on hand.
• Green Onions: Used as a garnish, green onions bring a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color to the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, saving a cup of the pasta water for later, and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp

In a bowl, coat the shrimp evenly with blackened seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter in it. Add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp for about 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Stir, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Once the cream begins to simmer, add the tomato paste, sour cream, and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and corn to the sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta and shrimp are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the pasta onto plates and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Tell If Shrimp Is Cooked

Shrimp cook very quickly. They’ll go from translucent gray to a firm, opaque pink. Be careful not to overcook them—shrimp can turn rubbery if cooked for too long.

Prevent Cheese from Clumping

For a smooth sauce, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded. The anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Make It Less Spicy

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the amount of blackened seasoning. Adding extra sour cream will also help mellow out the spice.

Save Time on Prep

To speed things up, buy shrimp that is already peeled and deveined. This cuts down on prep time and makes cooking even easier.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a side can make the meal even more enjoyable.

• Vegetables: Pair it with roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a fresh side salad to balance the rich flavors.
• Bread: A loaf of garlic bread or crusty baguette would be perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce.
• Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the creamy, seafood-based sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long, as it may become rubbery.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

Conclusion

This creamy blackened shrimp cavatappi is not only an easy recipe to try as a beginner, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that you can customize based on your preferences and what you have in your pantry. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear about it!

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