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Dairy-Free Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Recipe

4.6 from 148 reviews

This Dairy-Free Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful, spicy dish combining smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and a creamy coconut sauce. It’s a comforting one-pot meal where fettuccine is cooked right in a rich tomato and broth base seasoned with homemade Cajun spices. Perfect for those seeking a dairy-free and gluten-free friendly pasta option packed with bold, southern-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Seasoning

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • OR 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (pre-made)

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 14 ounces pre-cooked smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 ounces fettuccine (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can fire roasted tomatoes
  • 2 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream (or cashew cream)
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Cajun Seasoning: In a medium bowl, mix together smoked paprika, oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, and black pepper. Alternatively, use 1 1/2 tablespoons store-bought Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Sausage: Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add diced onion and sliced smoked sausage. Cook while stirring frequently until the onion is soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and half of the Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in the fire roasted tomatoes with their juice, chicken or vegetable broth, and uncooked fettuccine. Mix well to combine, then cover with a lid and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 11-12 minutes, or according to pasta package directions. Stir occasionally as needed.
  4. Prepare the Shrimp: While pasta cooks, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the remaining half of the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  5. Finish Cooking: When the pasta is nearly done, stir in the coconut cream and seasoned shrimp. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve the creamy Cajun shrimp pasta immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free fettuccine to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Coconut cream adds richness without dairy; cashew cream is a good alternative.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness.
  • Make sure to stir the pasta often while cooking to prevent sticking.
  • Pre-cooked smoked sausage adds smoky depth and saves cooking time.

Keywords: Dairy-Free Cajun Shrimp Pasta, Creamy Cajun Shrimp, Gluten-Free Pasta, One Pot Pasta, Cajun Seasoning, Coconut Cream Pasta, Spicy Shrimp Pasta