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Recipe by:

Elena SMITH

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

This Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi is a comforting pasta dish that combines spicy blackened shrimp with creamy cavatappi, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Group: Ingredients
  • 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 Tbsp. paprika
  • 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. dried thyme
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 12 oz. cavatappi pasta
  • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pot

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the spice mixture until well coated, ensuring every crevice is filled with flavor.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous charred brown and are opaque throughout. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add about 4 cups of salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the rest. Return the pasta to the skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and minced garlic—sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, and let it simmer and thicken slightly, stirring continuously.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach to the skillet, allowing them to wilt and soften for about 2-3 minutes. Then, gently fold in the blackened shrimp and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. If the mixture feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creaminess.
  6. Finish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and serve immediately. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite. Not prepping ingredients ahead can cause a rushed cooking process.