Description
This rich and creamy Cajun Cream Sauce combines bold Cajun spices with savory garlic, shallots, and Parmesan cheese, simmered to perfection for a luscious finish. Perfect for drizzling over pasta, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, this sauce adds a flavorful Southern Cajun twist with just the right balance of heat and creaminess.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add spices: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook the spices with the aromatics for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Simmer cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Thicken sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Melt cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season and finish: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat, add the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley if using, and stir to combine.
- Serve: Serve the sauce immediately over your choice of pasta, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a flavorful meal.
Notes
- Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning or omitting the cayenne pepper for a milder taste.
- For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk or chicken broth while simmering.
- This sauce pairs excellently with blackened seafood or grilled meats for a delicious Cajun-inspired meal.
