Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Introduction

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a bold and flavorful pasta dish that packs a punch with each bite. Picture perfectly cooked shrimp coated in a smoky, spicy blackened seasoning, tossed with al dente cavatappi pasta in a creamy, dreamy sauce. The heat from the seasoning adds a bold kick, while the spiral-shaped cavatappi pasta effortlessly captures every drop of the rich sauce, making each forkful burst with flavor.

I absolutely love making this dish when I want something quick yet packed with big flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels like it’s from a high-end restaurant but is so easy to prepare right at home. I remember the first time I made it for a small dinner party, and it was such a hit that my guests were asking for seconds. The creamy sauce balanced perfectly with the heat from the shrimp, and everyone loved how the pasta absorbed all the flavors.

What’s great about Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is that it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal. It’s perfect for an elevated weeknight dinner when you’re craving something comforting yet bold. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a special meal, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures is irresistible, and I guarantee you’ll be making it again and again!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Entertaining guests
• Romantic date nights
• Seafood lovers
• Quick gourmet meals

Why You’ll Love This Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Here’s why Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a must-try recipe:

• Burst of Bold Flavors: The blackened shrimp brings a smoky, spicy kick, perfectly balanced by the creamy pasta sauce.
• Easy Yet Impressive: This dish is simple enough for a quick meal but elegant enough to impress dinner guests.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Savor the flavors of your favorite seafood pasta dish without leaving the house.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the blackened seasoning to make the dish as mild or spicy as you like.
• Quick and Convenient: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi:

• 12 oz cavatappi pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cavatappi Pasta: The spiral shape of this pasta is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Blackened Seasoning: This blend of spices adds a smoky, spicy kick to the shrimp, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Heavy Cream: The base for the creamy sauce that brings richness and balances the spice of the shrimp.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
• Fresh Spinach and Tomatoes: Brighten the dish with freshness and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the cavatappi in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Blackened Shrimp:

2. Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss them with the blackened seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque and slightly charred. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet for added flavor.
6. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Dish:

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked cavatappi to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
8. Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Stir in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
9. Top with Shrimp: Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to combine.

Garnish and Serve:

10. Finish the Dish: Sprinkle with paprika and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As a Main Course: Serve it in shallow bowls, garnished with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or arugula salad for a balanced meal.
• For Family-Style Serving: Present it in a large serving dish and let everyone help themselves.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With a Wine Alternative: Complement with a sparkling water infused with lemon or lime for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips for Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Here are some tips for the perfect Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery. Watch closely!
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate the cheese yourself for the best flavor and a smoother sauce.
• Save Some Pasta Water: It’s perfect for adjusting the sauce consistency without diluting the flavor.
• Adjust the Spice: Control the heat level by using more or less blackened seasoning.
• Keep the Skillet Hot: A hot skillet ensures the shrimp gets a nice sear, enhancing the smoky flavor.

Recipe Variations for Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Here are 10 ways to customize Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi:

• Creamy Cajun Cavatappi: Use Cajun seasoning instead of blackened seasoning for a Southern twist.
• Seafood Mix Cavatappi: Add scallops or crab meat for a more indulgent seafood dish.
• Vegetarian Cavatappi: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Lemon Herb Cavatappi: Add lemon zest and fresh basil for a zesty, aromatic touch.
• Spicy Sausage Cavatappi: Swap shrimp for slices of andouille sausage for a heartier meal.
• Roasted Red Pepper Cavatappi: Blend roasted red peppers into the sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
• Zucchini Cavatappi: Add sautéed zucchini slices for extra veggies.
• Garlic Butter Cavatappi: Use a garlic butter sauce instead of cream for a lighter option.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Cavatappi: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, rich addition.
• Alfredo Style Cavatappi: Double the cream and cheese for an ultra-rich Alfredo-inspired version.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or water.
• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

These tools make preparing Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi a breeze:

• Large Skillet: A spacious skillet ensures even cooking and enough room to toss the pasta.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the shrimp and tossing the pasta.
• Garlic Press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
• Box Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
• Pasta Pot: Use a large pot to cook the cavatappi for the perfect al dente texture.

FAQ Section for Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
   Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great substitutes for cavatappi.
2. How spicy is this dish?
   The heat level depends on the blackened seasoning. You can adjust it to suit your preference.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a creamy, dairy-free version.
4. What’s the best shrimp size to use?
   Large shrimp work best, but medium shrimp are also suitable.
5. Can I make it ahead of time?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine them before serving.

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Conclusion

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a deliciously bold and creamy dish that combines smoky shrimp with tender pasta in a rich sauce. The blackened seasoning on the shrimp infuses each bite with a deep, flavorful kick, while the creamy sauce perfectly balances the heat. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes, or even adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both hearty and elegant.

I’d love to see how your Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi turns out! Be sure to take a picture and tag me on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you made this dish your own. Enjoy every bite!