Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Discover a delightful meal with this Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi recipe that combines bold flavors and creamy pasta for a family favorite! Learn how to prepare perfectly blackened shrimp, cook al dente cavatappi, and create a luscious sauce that brings everything together. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is sure to impress. Click through to explore the recipe and transform your kitchen into a flavor haven!

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Ingredients

8 oz cavatappi pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons blackening seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Cavatappi: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the blackening seasoning until well coated.

Blacken the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and slightly charred. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and allow to cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked cavatappi and blackened shrimp to the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve the dish in bowls or on plates, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an eye-catching finish. Consider adding a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh squeeze just before enjoying!