Jump to Recipe Print RecipeSteam rises from the skillet, wrapping the kitchen in a warm embrace of zesty spices and rich aromas. With a quick flip of my wrist, the shrimp sizzles to perfection, eagerly soaking in the scrumptious blend of smoked paprika and garlic. “Say goodbye to boring dinners!” I cheer as I toss together my Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi, a dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser for your loved ones—or just for you! Not only does this recipe come together in a snap, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to different dietary needs, making it a fantastic choice for everyone at the table. Creamy, comforting pasta meets bold, blackened shrimp in every delightful bite, inviting you to indulge without the fuss. Are you ready to discover how easy it is to elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive in! Why is this dish a must-try? Bold flavors: The Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi bursts with a flavorful combination of smoky spices and creamy sauce that will wake up your taste buds and put fast food to shame. Quick to prepare: This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights, coming together in just about 30 minutes. Versatile options: Simply swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences—gluten-free pasta or adding seasonal veggies makes it adaptable for everyone! Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family or friends at dinner without the stress. Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Satisfying and filling: With rich shrimp and hearty pasta, you’ll be inviting seconds in no time! Check out Honey Garlic Shrimp for another delectable option. Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Ingredients For the Pasta Cavatappi Pasta – This spiraled shape holds the sauce beautifully; substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired. For the Shrimp Shrimp (1 lb) – Peeled and deveined for ease; opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Essential for cooking the shrimp and enhancing its flavor. For the Spice Mix Smoked Paprika (2 tsp) – Infuses a deliciously smoky flavor into the dish. Cayenne Pepper (1 tsp, adjust to taste) – Offers a kick; omit for a milder experience. Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Elevates the overall taste with its aromatic qualities. Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Adds a layer of depth to the seasoning. Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Complements the shrimp’s bright flavors. Salt (1 tsp) & Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Basic seasonings to enhance the dish. For the Sauce Butter (2 tbsp) – Used for sautéing garlic and enriching the sauce. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings a punch of flavor that infuses the sauce. Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a rich, luscious sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Adds creaminess and depth; try Pecorino Romano for a different twist. For Garnishing Fresh Parsley – Offers a pop of color and freshness to the final dish. Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors exquisitely. Now that you have everything together, it’s time to turn your kitchen into a haven of delightful aromas and bold tastes! Enjoy creating your very own Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use. Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and the spice mix, which includes smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated in the spices, adding a burst of flavor that will shine through in the Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi. Step 3: Blacken the Shrimp Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a beautiful char. Use a spatula to flip them carefully. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate, allowing the flavorful crust to rest while you prepare the sauce. Step 4: Make the Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream, letting it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Slowly whisk in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, creating a luscious sauce that will envelop your pasta. Step 5: Combine Gently fold the cooked cavatappi and blackened shrimp into the creamy sauce, mixing well until every noodle is coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Heat the mixture through for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in your Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi. Step 6: Serve Once everything is combined and warmed through, remove the skillet from heat. Serve immediately, garnishing each plate with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color. Don’t forget to offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish that brightens every bite! Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Variations Customize your Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these exciting twists! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta instead of cavatappi for the same comforting texture without the gluten. Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for grilled zucchini or eggplant, seasoned similarly to capture the same smoky flavor without the seafood. Creamy & Lighter: Opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce while still staying creamy and delicious. Cheese Variation: Try using Pecorino Romano for a saltier bite or goat cheese for a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with shrimp. Spice Booster: Add extra cayenne or even a splash of hot sauce for those who crave more heat. Adjust the amount to keep it at your preferred spice level. Crunchy Topping: Top the dish with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for an added texture that elevates the overall experience. Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, to enhance nutrition and lemony visual appeal. Fusion Flavor: Give it a Thai-inspired kick by adding a hint of coconut milk and a sprinkle of lime juice to the sauce for a touch of the tropics. Feeling inspired? You might also enjoy creating a delicious Shrimp Corn Bisque or trying your hand at some flavorful Korean BBQ Steak Rice for a different take on shrimp! Expert Tips for Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Perfect Shrimp: Monitor the cooking time closely; shrimp should be just opaque and tender, avoiding overcooking that can lead to toughness. Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Don’t hesitate to omit it entirely for a milder flavor in your Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi. Creamy Consistency: Keep that reserved pasta water handy! It’s your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s thickness without losing creaminess. Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap in seasonal veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to add nutrition and color to your dish. Leftovers Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make a quick meal for the next day! Make Ahead Options These Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi are excellent for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can season the shrimp and store them in an airtight container up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak in the smoky spices. Additionally, the pasta can be cooked and refrigerated up to 3 days ahead; just remember to toss it in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, heat the shrimp in a skillet, make the sauce, and combine everything. This keeps your dish just as delicious and fresh, making dinner a breezy affair! What to Serve with Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that beautifully complement the rich and smoky flavors of this Cajun-inspired dish. Garlic Bread: A classic favorite, its crispy edges and buttery, garlicky goodness perfectly balance the creamy pasta. Light Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch, brightening each savory bite. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and lemon make a delightful contrast to the dish’s richness. Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity of a sweet and tangy coleslaw provide a wonderful palate cleanser between bites. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, char-grilled corn elevates the Southern charm and adds a burst of sweetness to the meal. Refreshing White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the heat with its crisp brightness, enhancing the flavors elegantly. Pair these elements with your Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi, and you’ll create a memorable meal that your loved ones will cherish! How to Store and Freeze Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish cools down before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat. To maintain creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or reserved pasta water as needed. Stir frequently to warm evenly. Tips: If the sauce thickens upon reheating, adding a little liquid (cream or pasta water) will revive its original texture. Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Recipe FAQs How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. If opting for frozen shrimp, make sure they’ve been thawed properly; overnight refrigeration is ideal. Look for shrimp labeled “peeled and deveined” to save time, ensuring they’re ready to hit the skillet! How should I store leftovers? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before sealing, let the dish cool down to maintain freshness. If you’re looking to keep this dish longer, consider freezing it as outlined below. Can I freeze Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi? Of course! To freeze, place the cooled Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. What’s the best way to reheat this dish? Here’s how I do it: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of heavy cream or the reserved pasta water to help maintain that creamy consistency as it warms. Keep stirring frequently to ensure it heats evenly without burning. If you notice the sauce thickening too much, a little liquid will bring it back to life! What if I have dietary restrictions? This dish is incredibly adaptable! For gluten-free options, swap the cavatappi with a gluten-free pasta. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to replace shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu, and consider adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. Just keep in mind the cooking time will vary based on your chosen substitute. Are there any common mistakes to avoid while preparing? Definitely! One key tip is to keep an eye on the shrimp while they cook—they cook quickly. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture; they should be just opaque and firm. Adjust the cayenne pepper to fit your spice level; the more the merrier, but it can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor. Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi for a Flavorful Night In Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a comforting, flavorful dish that elevates weeknight dinners with bold spices and creamy sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 540 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Cavatappi Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desiredFor the Shrimp1 lb Shrimp Peeled and deveined2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for cooking the shrimpFor the Spice Mix2 tsp Smoked Paprika1 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust to taste1 tsp Garlic Powder1 tsp Onion Powder1 tsp Dried Oregano1 tsp Salt1/2 tsp Black PepperFor the Sauce2 tbsp Butter3 cloves Garlic Minced1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version1 cup Parmesan Cheese ShreddedFor Garnishing1 tbsp Fresh Parsley Chopped1 Lemon Wedges Equipment Large potSkilletMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and the spice mix. Toss well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until opaque and charred. Transfer to a plate.In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Whisk in the Parmesan until melted.Gently fold the cooked cavatappi and blackened shrimp into the creamy sauce, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.Remove skillet from heat. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley and offering lemon wedges on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
