Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

This Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the bold spices of blackened shrimp with a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds with its combination of tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a savory Parmesan cream sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Bold Flavor: The blackened seasoning on the shrimp adds a wonderful spice and depth of flavor.
2. Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, comforting sauce that coats the cavatappi perfectly.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is great for busy evenings when you want something flavorful but easy to prepare.
4. Colorful and Vibrant: The bell peppers and fresh parsley add a burst of color to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb cavatappi pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Directions:

1. Cook the Cavatappi:
   Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the Shrimp:
   Season the shrimp with blackening seasoning to coat them evenly.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add the red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce:
   Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Finish the Sauce:
   Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
   Add the cooked cavatappi pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta and shrimp with the creamy sauce.
8. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

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Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Shrimp Variations: If you don’t have shrimp, this recipe works well with chicken or even scallops.

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Conclusion:

This Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a wonderful combination of bold flavors and creamy goodness. The blackened shrimp bring a smoky spice that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, making each bite incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite and a go-to for your weeknight meals.

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