There’s something undeniably delightful about a plate of Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi that transforms an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration. Just picture it: the moment you sprinkle that blackened seasoning on those succulent shrimp, the spices promise to bring a burst of flavor that dances on your palate. As the aroma fills your kitchen, memories of cozy dinners come rushing back, all while knowing this dish is here to rescue you from the monotony of takeout.
After a long week of fast food and busy schedules, I was yearning for something comforting yet exciting. That’s when I decided to whip up this vibrant dish that seamlessly combines creamy sauce with a hint of spice and the crunch of sweet corn. Trust me, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a go-to—perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day. Grab your favorite pasta, and let’s dive into this easy-to-make, flavor-packed feast that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This dish is a breeze to prepare, perfect for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen.
Bold Flavors: The blackened seasoning delivers a delightful kick that elevates the dish, while the creamy sauce lends a luscious touch.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or protein to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit, suitable for family dinners or gatherings with friends, ensuring nobody leaves hungry!
Comfort Food Upgrade: Enjoy the cozy combination of shrimp, cavatappi, and sweet corn, making this both comforting and exciting.
Indulge in this dish and transform your next meal into a flavorful experience, much more rewarding than takeout.
Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Ingredients
• Unlock the secrets to a flavorful dish!
For the Pasta
• Cavatappi noodles – These spiral-shaped pasta hold onto the sauce beautifully, making each bite a delight.
For the Shrimp
• Large shrimp – Opt for fresh, deveined shrimp to achieve the best flavor and texture in your cavatappi.
For the Spice
• Blackened seasoning – This blend adds a perfect kick, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
For the Sauce
• Unsalted butter – Provides a rich foundation for the sauce, enhancing the creaminess.
• Heavy cream – Ensures a luscious, velvety texture that envelops the pasta.
• Tomato paste – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
• Sour cream – Balances the flavors with a tangy finish.
• Parmesan cheese – Grate fresh for a nutty richness that melts beautifully into the sauce.
For the Extras
• Sweet corn – Brings a pop of sweetness and texture that contrasts wonderfully with the shrimp.
• Green onion – Offers freshness and a burst of color as a garnish to complete your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the cavatappi noodles. Cook al dente according to package directions, about 8-9 minutes, until tender yet firm.
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Season the Shrimp: While the noodles are cooking, sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over the raw, deveined shrimp. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
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Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once sizzling, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are pink and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a low simmer, ensuring to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
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Mix in the Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the tomato paste, sour cream, and grated parmesan. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked cavatappi, sautéed shrimp, and drained sweet corn into the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well-coated in the creamy goodness.
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Garnish and Serve: Top your dish with freshly chopped green onion before serving. Enjoy this delightful meal warm!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra parmesan for that added cheesy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi?
Sometimes, a comforting dish calls for thoughtful pairings to create an unforgettable meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors are perfect for dipping into the rich sauce, enhancing the meal’s comfort factor.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy cavatappi, adding texture and freshness to your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, with their caramelized sweetness, provide a delightful contrast to the blackened seasoning of the shrimp.
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Lemon Wedge: Just a squeeze over your dish brightens the flavors, enhancing the spices and creaminess in each bite.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish perfectly, bringing out the seafood’s natural sweetness.
For dessert, consider a Chocolate Mousse — its light, airy texture rounds off the meal with a sweet finish, leaving everyone satisfied. With these delightful options, your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi night transforms into a culinary celebration!
Expert Tips for Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
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Perfect Pasta: Cook your cavatappi until al dente to avoid mushiness; it should have a slight bite for the best texture in your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi.
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Seasoning Strategy: Make sure to evenly coat the shrimp with blackened seasoning. Not enough seasoning means the shrimp might lack that bold flavor punch.
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Sauce Scraping: Don’t skip scraping the brown bits while simmering the heavy cream; it adds rich flavor that makes your sauce extraordinary!
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Shrimp Timing: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp in the skillet; it can turn rubbery. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque!
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Custom Additions: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra freshness and nutrients in your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi!
How to Store and Freeze Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream for moisture.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat the thawed cavatappi in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of cream to restore its creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the shrimp by seasoning them and refrigerating for up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing those bold flavors to penetrate deeply. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently to maintain its luscious texture. When you’re ready to serve, cook the cavatappi and simply toss everything together in the skillet, and your delightful meal is ready to impress without the last-minute rush!
Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Swap cavatappi with gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or chickpeas to keep it friendly for gluten sensitivities.
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Zucchini Noodles: Replace cavatappi with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb, veggie-packed alternative that retains that lovely flavor profile.
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Creamy Vegan: Use coconut cream and cashew-based sour cream instead of dairy for a delicious vegan-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.
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Extra Veggies: Enhance nutrition by adding in sautéed spinach or bell peppers, which add vibrant color and extra flavor to your dish.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the blackened seasoning for an extra fiery bite.
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Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest before serving to brighten the flavorful sauce even further, giving you that perfect zing.
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Italian Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of white wine in the sauce for a lovely Italian flair that complements the shrimp beautifully.
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Sausage Combo: For a heartier dish, mix in slices of andouille sausage or chorizo with the shrimp for an extra protein punch and a fantastic flavor boost!
Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, large shrimp that are raw, deveined, and with the tails removed. This ensures the shrimp will cook evenly and absorb all the delightful seasonings you’ll be using.
How should I store leftovers of Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of cream or milk to ensure the dish retains its creamy texture and doesn’t dry out.
Can I freeze Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi?
Yes, you can! To freeze this delicious dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little cream as needed to bring back its creamy richness.
What if my shrimp are turning rubbery while cooking?
Very good question! If you find that your shrimp are turning rubbery, it’s likely due to overcooking. Make sure to cook the shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 4-6 minutes. Watch closely and flip them halfway through for even cooking!
Are there any dietary considerations with this dish?
Indeed! This recipe contains dairy and shellfish, which are common allergens. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with non-dairy alternatives, like coconut milk or vegan sour cream. Just be sure to check that the seasoning you utilize is also allergy-friendly for anyone enjoying your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi.
How do I know when the cavatappi noodles are perfectly cooked?
To achieve that ideal al dente texture in your cavatappi, cook them according to the package directions, typically about 8-9 minutes. You’ll want them tender but still firm enough to hold their shape when mixed with the sauce, so taste-test a piece a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up!
Savor Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the cavatappi noodles. Cook al dente according to package directions, about 8-9 minutes, until tender yet firm.
- While the noodles are cooking, sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over the raw, deveined shrimp. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once sizzling, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are pink and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a low simmer, ensuring to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the tomato paste, sour cream, and grated parmesan. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked cavatappi, sautéed shrimp, and drained sweet corn into the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well-coated in the creamy goodness.
- Top your dish with freshly chopped green onion before serving. Enjoy this delightful meal warm!