Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried blackened shrimp cavatappi, you’re in for a treat! This dish is one of my absolute favorites because it’s bursting with flavor and comes together in no time. The shrimp gets beautifully coated in a spicy blackened seasoning that really elevates the whole meal. And the cavatappi pasta? It’s like little spirals of heaven that soak up all that creamy goodness! Plus, you can whip this up in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz cavatappi pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning (make sure it’s evenly coated for maximum flavor!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (this will give your sauce that luscious, creamy texture)
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for a fresh pop of color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
Step 1: Cook the Cavatappi
First things first, let’s get that cavatappi going! Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so keep an eye on it! Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside while you work on the shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Now, grab your shrimp and sprinkle that blackened seasoning generously over them. Make sure every shrimp is evenly coated—this is where the magic happens! You want that spicy, smoky flavor to get into every nook and cranny. It’s so delicious!
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil’s shimmering, add your seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn that lovely shade of pink and are cooked through. Ooh, they smell amazing already!
Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir them in and let them cook for about 2 more minutes. You want the garlic to become fragrant and the tomatoes to soften just a bit, bursting with sweetness. Yum!
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where your sauce comes together—it should be creamy and luscious. Stir it well to combine all those flavors, and let it bubble softly for a minute or two.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Now, toss in that cooked cavatappi and chopped parsley. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring that the pasta is coated in that heavenly sauce. It’s starting to look irresistible!
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your masterpiece and season with salt and pepper as needed. Then, serve it up hot! You can sprinkle a little extra parsley on top for a fresh touch or even some grated Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: You can have this delicious meal on the table in just 25 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Rich, bold flavors: The blackened seasoning adds a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender shrimp.
- Comfort food with a twist: The cavatappi pasta is not only fun to eat but also soaks up all that delicious sauce, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the shrimp for chicken or tofu if you’re looking for a different protein or want to cater to dietary preferences.
- Fresh ingredients: With tomatoes and parsley, this dish is packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients, making it a healthier option for dinner.
- Impressive yet simple: Your family and guests will be wowed by your culinary skills, but you’ll know just how easy it really is!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of blackened shrimp cavatappi. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any modifications you make, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re working with:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
So, there you have it! This dish is not only delicious but also packs a good punch of protein and flavor. Perfect for fueling your busy days or just treating yourself to something special!
Variations of Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
If you want to mix things up with your blackened shrimp cavatappi, you’re in luck! This dish is super versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it to your taste. Here are some fun ideas to try:
- Chicken or Tofu: Swap out the shrimp for diced chicken breast or firm tofu for a different protein option. Just season and cook them the same way, and you’ll have a delightful twist!
- Veggie Boost: Add a splash of color and nutrition by tossing in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic and cherry tomatoes for a delicious medley.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the shrimp seasoning. It’ll take your dish to a whole new level of spice!
- Cheesy Goodness: For a richer flavor, stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese when you add the heavy cream. It’ll melt beautifully and make the sauce even creamier.
- Herb Variations: Instead of parsley, you could use fresh basil or cilantro for a different herbaceous note. Each brings its unique flair to the dish!
- Pasta Alternatives: While cavatappi is a favorite, feel free to swap in other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Don’t hesitate to get creative! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s just a jumping-off point. You can really make it your own while still enjoying all that delicious flavor!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your blackened shrimp cavatappi turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my best tips and tricks to avoid common pitfalls and ensure you’re serving up a dish that’s nothing short of amazing:
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them! They should be pink and opaque when done. If you overcook them, they can become tough and rubbery. Trust me, no one wants that!
- Season Generously: Blackened seasoning is key here, but don’t be afraid to adjust it to your taste! If you love a bit more kick, sprinkle on some extra seasoning before cooking. Just be careful with salt if your seasoning mix already contains it.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prep your ingredients beforehand! Chop the garlic, halve the cherry tomatoes, and season the shrimp earlier in the day. When it’s cooking time, everything will be ready to go, making the process even smoother.
- Use High Heat: Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the shrimp. This will give them that beautiful sear and help lock in all that juicy flavor. A hot pan means less sticking too!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and high-quality shrimp. Fresh ingredients really make a difference in flavor and texture. And don’t skip on the parsley—it adds a wonderful freshness!
- Taste as You Go: Don’t be shy about tasting your dish as you cook! This is the best way to adjust flavors, especially when it comes to seasoning the cream sauce. You want it to be just right!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The pasta can absorb the sauce if left sitting for too long, so serve it up right away for the best experience!
Follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table with your culinary skills. Enjoy the process, have fun, and savor every delicious bite of your blackened shrimp cavatappi! You’ve got this!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. They’ll still turn out delicious!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change a bit, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately, and then combine everything just before serving. This will help maintain the texture and flavor!
What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and salt. It’s a great way to customize the spice level to your preference!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free cavatappi or another gluten-free pasta, this dish is totally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels on your ingredients to be sure.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the pasta may soak up some of the sauce, so you might want to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to revive that creamy texture!
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli. Just sauté them along with the garlic and tomatoes to get them nice and tender. It adds great color and nutrition!
What are some good side dishes to serve with this?
A simple side salad or some garlic bread pairs wonderfully with blackened shrimp cavatappi. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
For more information on the benefits of shrimp, check out this Healthline article.
If you’re looking for more delicious pasta recipes, be sure to check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Creamy Chicken Pasta!
Print
Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi: 7 Flavorful Reasons to Savor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish featuring shrimp and cavatappi pasta with a spicy blackened seasoning.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cavatappi pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook cavatappi according to package instructions.
- Season shrimp with blackened seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2 more minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Toss in cooked cavatappi and parsley, mixing well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for variation.
- Serve with grated Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: blackened shrimp cavatappi, shrimp pasta, blackened shrimp recipe
