Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Four-Cheese Linguine

Here’s a detailed, restaurant-style recipe for Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Four-Cheese Linguine:

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Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the creamy four-cheese sauce:

• 12 oz linguine (or pasta of choice)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup shredded fontina
• 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, enhances creaminess)

For garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

1. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and slightly golden.
4. Add butter and garlic, sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp, sprinkle parsley, and remove from skillet.

3. Make the Four-Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Reduce heat and add all four cheeses gradually, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked linguine to the sauce, tossing to coat.
2. If sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency.

5. Serve

1. Plate the creamy linguine, top with Cajun garlic butter shrimp.
2. Garnish with parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Serve immediately for maximum gooey, cheesy, spicy delight.

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💡 Tips for Perfection:

• Shrimp cooks fast: Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery. Keep a close eye—they turn pink and opaque when done.
• Cheese balance: Use fresh-grated cheeses if possible for smooth melting.
• Cajun flavor: Adjust seasoning based on heat preference—add smoked paprika for depth or cayenne for spice.