Let me tell you, there’s something magical about the combination of blackened shrimp and cavatappi pasta! This dish is bursting with flavor, thanks to the spicy blackened seasoning that gives the shrimp that wonderful smoky kick. I remember the first time I made this recipe; I was trying to impress some friends for dinner, and boy, did it deliver! The moment the shrimp hit the skillet, the kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma—it was a total game changer. The tender cavatappi swirls around the juicy shrimp, and with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s like a party on your plate. Trust me, you won’t just want to eat this; you’ll want to savor every single bite. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this blackened shrimp cavatappi is going to become your new go-to dish. Get ready to impress yourself and everyone at your table with this deliciously satisfying meal!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this blackened shrimp cavatappi truly shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces cavatappi pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto the flavorful sauce. Cook it until al dente for the best texture.
1 pound shrimp: Make sure to use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. I prefer large shrimp for that juicy bite!
2 tablespoons blackened seasoning: This is where the magic happens! You can use store-bought or whip up your own blend of spices for that smoky kick.
2 tablespoons olive oil: A good olive oil helps to sear the shrimp nicely while adding a subtle richness.
1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halve these sweet little gems to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and aroma. Fresh is always best!
1/4 cup fresh parsley: Chop this up for a pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the spices.
Salt and pepper: Always essential to enhance the flavors! Adjust these to your taste.

How to Prepare Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking this delicious blackened shrimp cavatappi! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll have a delightful dish on the table in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be a pro in no time!

Cook the cavatappi: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling away, add the 8 ounces of cavatappi pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking! Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. I like to toss it with a splash of olive oil to keep it from clumping together.
Season the shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, grab your 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of blackened seasoning. Make sure every shrimp is coated evenly. If you love a bit more heat, feel free to add a pinch more seasoning—it’s all about your taste!
Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough that the shrimp sizzles when it hits the pan, but not so hot that the oil starts to smoke.
Cook the shrimp: Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam rather than blacken! Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they turn a lovely pink color. Then, flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re fully cooked and have a nice char. Yum!
Add garlic and tomatoes: Once the shrimp are cooked through, it’s time to amp up the flavor! Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The tomatoes should soften, and the garlic will become fragrant—this is the moment you want to savor!
Combine it all: Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained cavatappi to the skillet and gently toss it with the shrimp mixture. You want the pasta to soak up all those incredible flavors. If it looks a bit dry, feel free to add a splash of pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil.
Finish with parsley: Stir in the 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish that really brightens it up.
Serve hot: Plate up this gorgeous blackened shrimp cavatappi while it’s hot! I recommend serving it with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing if you like. Enjoy every bite!

And there you have it! A deliciously satisfying meal that’s bound to impress. Don’t worry if you feel a little intimidated at first; just take it step by step, and soon you’ll be whipping this up like a pro!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
Packed with flavor from the spicy blackened seasoning and fresh ingredients.
Perfectly balanced with protein from shrimp and wholesome carbs from cavatappi.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or extra spices.
Gluten-free option that’s satisfying and delicious for everyone.

Tips for Success

To make your blackened shrimp cavatappi truly shine, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! First, don’t skimp on the seasoning; the blackened seasoning is what brings that bold flavor to the dish. If you love heat, feel free to add a little more than the suggested amount, but taste as you go—no one wants to set their taste buds on fire!

Next, when cooking the shrimp, make sure your skillet is hot enough. A good sizzle when the shrimp hits the pan is key to getting that beautiful blackened crust. Overcrowding the pan is a common mistake—cook the shrimp in batches if needed to avoid steaming them. You want that char, not a soggy shrimp!

Also, remember to keep an eye on the garlic when you add it to the skillet. It can burn quickly, and burnt garlic is a no-go! Stir it around and let it soften for just a minute before adding in those cherry tomatoes.

Finally, if you want to elevate the dish even more, try finishing it off with a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy contrast. Trust me, these little tweaks will take your blackened shrimp cavatappi from great to absolutely unforgettable!

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up with your blackened shrimp cavatappi, there are plenty of delicious variations to explore! For a different protein, you can swap the shrimp for chicken or even scallops—just adjust the cooking time accordingly since they may take a bit longer. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some Cajun sausage for an extra kick of flavor!

Vegetable lovers will rejoice at how easy it is to incorporate more veggies. Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition. You could even add some black beans for added protein and fiber, making this dish even heartier. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your blackened shrimp cavatappi is super simple! Just let the pasta cool down to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when you made it!

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best texture. Just add a splash of water or broth to a skillet along with the pasta and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious—heat it in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating. Enjoy your tasty leftovers just like the first time!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying blackened shrimp cavatappi, it’s great to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, which is about one-fourth of the entire dish:

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Cholesterol: 200mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust for any substitutions or additions you might make, especially if you’re adding extra veggies or sauces. Enjoy this flavorful dish knowing it’s not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you satisfied!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before you start seasoning. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Just remember to pat them dry before tossing them with the blackened seasoning to ensure they get that nice char!

What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing together spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the amounts to fit your spice preference. It’s super simple, and you’ll still get that bold flavor in your blackened shrimp cavatappi!

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they get tender but still retain some crunch. It’s a great way to boost the nutrition and add more color to your plate!

How spicy is this dish?
The spice level really depends on how much blackened seasoning you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less seasoning and gradually increase to your liking. The shrimp will still be flavorful without overwhelming heat. You can also balance it out with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a refreshing contrast!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and pasta separately ahead of time, but I recommend combining them just before serving. This way, the pasta stays fresh, and the shrimp retains its perfect texture. If you do need to reheat, just be mindful to warm it gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your blackened shrimp cavatappi, there are a few delightful options that can elevate your meal even more! I love to pair this dish with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette—something with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and maybe some avocado for creaminess. It’s a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the shrimp and pasta!

If you’re in the mood for something warm, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. The warmth of the bread complements the dish beautifully, and the roasted veggies add that extra touch of color and nutrition. And don’t forget a wedge of lemon on the side; a little squeeze of lemon juice right before digging in can enhance the flavors even more! Enjoy your meal with these tasty accompaniments for a well-rounded dining experience!

Comforting Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi: 7 Steps to Satisfaction

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful dish featuring shrimp and cavatappi pasta with a spicy blackened seasoning.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces cavatappi pasta
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, toss shrimp with blackened seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Add garlic and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture.
Stir in fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust the amount of blackened seasoning to taste.
Serve with lemon wedges for added flavor.
This dish pairs well with a side salad.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 200mg

Keywords: blackened shrimp cavatappi, shrimp pasta, cavatappi recipe

Spread the love