Creamy Cajun Shrimp

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 1-2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• Salt to taste

For the sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon thyme

For serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Green onions, sliced

• Rice or pasta for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Season and cook shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and season with Cajun seasoning and salt. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and no longer opaque. Remove shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build sauce base
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes and sauté for 2 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add liquids
Gradually add chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add heavy cream, honey, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Thicken sauce
Let sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. The sauce should reduce and concentrate in flavor.

Step 5: Finish dish
Reduce heat to low and slowly sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.