Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Introduction

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi quickly became a family favorite when I first made it. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, a creamy, tangy sauce, and the pop of sweet corn all tossed with tender cavatappi noodles is just irresistible. The blackened seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick to the shrimp, while the creamy sauce balances it out with rich flavors. It’s an easy dish to prepare and doesn’t take much time, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and I’m sure it will become a regular on your dinner table too!

Why You’ll Love Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pan meal that combines the smoky, spicy heat of blackened shrimp with a creamy sauce that complements the sweetness of corn. The tender cavatappi noodles soak up all the delicious sauce, making every bite an indulgence. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need something filling and flavorful.

What really makes this dish stand out is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasoning to your taste, add more veggies if desired, or even make it spicier by adding more blackened seasoning. The creamy sauce is rich without being overwhelming, and it binds all the ingredients together perfectly. The dish is hearty, but the sweetness of the corn provides a lovely contrast to the savory shrimp and pasta, creating a balanced, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces cavatappi noodles, cooked al dente according to package instructions

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, raw, deveined, tail removed
• 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup (238 g) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup (57.5 g) sour cream
• ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn, drained
• Green onion, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the cavatappi noodles according to the package instructions (typically 8-9 minutes). Once the noodles are cooked al dente, drain them and set aside.

2. Season the Shrimp:
Place the raw shrimp in a bowl and toss them in the blackened seasoning until they are evenly coated.

3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through, until they turn opaque and are fully cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean), lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Let the cream simmer for a minute or two, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to add extra flavor to the sauce. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the tomato paste, sour cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the parmesan melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and drained corn into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated and heated through.

6. Serve:
Transfer the Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi to plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 518 kcal

Note: The nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course for dinner or lunch. This dish is filling and can be the centerpiece of a meal.
• Pair with a light green salad to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Enjoy with a slice of garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• This dish also makes for great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat the next day for a quick meal.
• For a more decadent dish, sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or add a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more blackened seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp before cooking.
2. Use Fresh Shrimp: While frozen shrimp can be used, fresh shrimp will have a more tender texture and better flavor.
3. Add Veggies: You can toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the shrimp.
4. Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
5. Make It Ahead: You can prep the shrimp and sauce in advance. Keep the shrimp and sauce separate until ready to combine and serve, as the pasta can absorb too much of the sauce if stored together.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have cavatappi noodles, you can use any other short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want more heat, add extra blackened seasoning to the shrimp or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the sauce.

3. Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?
Yes! You can use chicken breast or thighs instead of shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for the chicken.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh. However, you can make the sauce and cook the shrimp in advance, then assemble and heat everything together when ready to serve.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cream and cheese alternative like coconut milk and vegan parmesan to make this dish dairy-free.

7. What can I serve this with?
Serve this dish with a side of salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

8. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them. As soon as they turn opaque, they’re done. Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery.

9. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them before using. Pat them dry to avoid excess water in the skillet.

10. What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is the perfect dish for anyone craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. The blackened shrimp, creamy sauce, and sweet corn come together in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner but is elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. It’s the kind of meal that you’ll want to make again and again, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting friends, this Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi will not disappoint!

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