Name: Savor the Flavor with Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff Tonight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (Main protein source; substitute with firm white fish if desired.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Used for marinating the shrimp.); 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning (Essential for the recipe.); 8 ounces Fettuccini Pasta (Gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness; can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Mushrooms (Adds umami and texture; can substitute with other vegetables.); 2 tablespoons Shallots (Offers a milder onion flavor; can be replaced with yellow onion.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Provides liquid for the sauce.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Thickening agent for the sauce.); 1 cup Roasted Red Bell Peppers (For sweetness and texture; fresh can be used if roasted at home.); 1 tablespoon Capers (Add a briny flavor that balances richness.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of Cajun spices began to dance in the air, turning a typical evening into something special. Enter the Creamy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff—my lighter take on a classic dish that truly excites the palate. With the smoky flavor of perfectly seasoned shrimp meeting the rich, velvety sauce enveloping tender fettuccini, this dish is a dream come true for seafood enthusiasts. Not only is it a quick weeknight dinner solution, but it also satisfies those comfort food cravings without feeling guilty. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this delightful meal is bound to pique your interest. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!

Why Try Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?

Discover a recipe that seamlessly blends comfort with bold flavors!
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning elevates the shrimp, giving each bite a warm, smoky kick.
Creamy Goodness: The rich sour cream sauce envelops fettuccini, making for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Versatile Options: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a cozy dinner or entertaining friends, it’s a dish that will impress all seafood lovers. For a cozy starter, check out our delicious Crab Shrimp Bisque!

Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a flavor-packed dish!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Main protein source; provides a tender, savory base. Substitute with any firm white fish if desired.
Olive Oil – Used for marinating the shrimp and enhancing flavor; any neutral oil can be a substitute.
Cajun Seasoning – Adds bold, spicy flavor; essential for the recipe. Homemade mix can be created with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.

For the Pasta

Fettuccini Pasta – Base of the dish; provides texture. Gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.

For the Sauce

Butter – For sautéing mushrooms and shallots; adds richness. Can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Mushrooms – Adds umami and texture to the sauce; can substitute with other vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
Shallots – Offers a milder onion flavor; can be replaced with yellow onion.
Chicken Broth – Provides liquid for the sauce; adds depth of flavor. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess and tang to the sauce; can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Cornstarch – Thickening agent for the sauce; can omit for a thinner sauce or use arrowroot for a gluten-free alternative.
Roasted Red Bell Peppers – For sweetness and texture; fresh bell peppers can be used if roasted at home.
Capers – Add a briny flavor that balances the richness; can be omitted if not preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil and Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. This step is crucial, as a well-seasoned shrimp will bring that zesty kick to your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff later on.

Step 2: Cook the Fettuccini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, but reserve about a cup of pasta water. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce later, ensuring your dish is creamy and delicious.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until foamy, then add the sliced mushrooms and shallots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms become tender and begin to caramelize. Once done, remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside. This builds a flavorful base for your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as you want them to sear nicely. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside with the vegetables.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the liquid reduces to about a quarter cup, which should take 2-3 minutes. This concentrated broth will serve as the foundation of your sauce for the Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff.

Step 6: Create the Creamy Base
In a bowl, mix sour cream and cornstarch together until smooth, along with a bit of the reserved pasta water. Gradually stir this mixture into the reduced broth, continuing to cook over low heat. You’ll notice the sauce thickening beautifully, creating a creamy texture that envelops the shrimp and pasta perfectly.

Step 7: Combine and Heat Through
Return the cooked shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, roasted red bell peppers, and capers to the skillet. Stir everything together gently and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the dish.

Step 8: Serve Over Pasta
Finally, serve the rich and creamy shrimp mixture over a bed of the cooked fettuccini. Mix everything together or let the sauce sit atop the noodles for a gorgeous presentation. Your delightful Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is now ready to be enjoyed, showcasing a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.

How to Store and Freeze Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Fridge: Store any leftover Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce (without pasta) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove and add fresh fettuccini afterward.

Reheating: When reheating, warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Avoid: It’s best to avoid freezing the cooked pasta as it can become mushy; instead, cook fresh pasta to enjoy with your reheated sauce.

Make Ahead Options

These Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers to maintain quality. The creamy sauce can also be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just ensure you stir it well before reheating to keep it smooth. When you’re ready to serve, cook the fettuccini fresh, then combine everything in a skillet over low heat, ensuring it’s heated through and well-mixed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

What to Serve with Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Elevate your dinner table with delightful pairings that amplify the rich flavors of this creamy dish.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy sauce, making it easy to soak up every last bite.
Baby Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach tossed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, enhancing your dining experience.
Roasted Broccoli: Crunchy, caramelized broccoli adds a healthy element and earthiness, balancing the spice from the shrimp beautifully.
Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy coleslaw can provide a delightful crunch, playing off the smoothness of the stroganoff while keeping it light.
Red Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Noir can elevate the meal, pairing nicely with both the spicy shrimp and the creamy sauce.
Lemon Tart: For dessert, a zesty lemon tart can brighten the meal’s conclusion, providing a refreshing end to the rich main course.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn with a sprinkle of salt and butter adds a sweet note that complements the spicy shrimp without overwhelming the palate.
Crispy Potato Wedges: The hearty crunch of baked potato wedges provides a satisfying texture alongside the silky sauce of the stroganoff, creating a wholesome meal.
Herbed Quinoa: A side of fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs can elevate the dish further, adding both flavor and health benefits without overshadowing the main attraction.

Expert Tips for Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Marinate Wisely: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor; it’s essential for a delicious Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff.
Temperature Check: Ensure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning to achieve a good sear; wet shrimp can steam instead of sear.
Spicy Balance: Adjust your Cajun seasoning to match your heat preference—taste the sauce before serving to avoid overpowering the dish.
Pasta Perfection: Reserve some pasta water after cooking your fettuccini; this starchy liquid is invaluable for loosening the sauce later.
Cooking Times Matter: Take care not to overcook the shrimp; they should only take 2-3 minutes on high heat until they turn pink and opaque.

Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff Variations

Feel free to customize your Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast for a hearty alternative that still packs a punch in flavor. You can easily marinate the chicken with the same Cajun seasoning for that zesty kick.
Vegetable Medley: Add fresh spinach or kale for a burst of green and nutrition. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful and vibrant twist.
Firm Tofu: For a vegetarian option, swap the shrimp with cubes of firm tofu. Marinate and sauté them until golden for a satisfying texture that soaks in all those luscious flavors.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta instead of fettuccini for a dish that everyone can enjoy. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Spicy Heat: Amp up the Cajun seasoning for a fiery kick! Alternatively, drizzle in some hot sauce while cooking to suit your spice preference—just be sure to taste as you go!
Cream Cheese: For an even creamier sauce, mix in a dollop of cream cheese along with the sour cream. This will add richness and depth that will leave you craving more.
Lemon Zest: Brighten up the dish by adding a hint of lemon zest before serving. It will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavor, sprinkle in some nutritional yeast. This will give your sauce a nutty undertone while remaining plant-based friendly, making it a great addition for vegan diets.

In the mood for something similar? Try our delicious Crab Shrimp Bisque for a cozy seafood experience!

Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
I recommend using large, raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Make sure to choose shrimp that are firm, with a slight sheen—this indicates freshness. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with a firm white fish, but don’t skimp on marinating!

How should I store leftovers of Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
Leftover Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat.

Can I freeze Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
Absolutely! However, I suggest freezing the sauce separately from the pasta. Place the cooled sauce in an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, reheat it on the stove, and serve it over freshly cooked fettuccini.

What do I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has become thick upon reheating, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir it in gently over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will revive the creaminess and keep it from being clumpy.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, easily modify this recipe! For a gluten-free option, substitute the fettuccini with gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for dairy-free, swap the butter with olive oil, and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Be sure to check if any guests have seafood allergies, as shrimp is the star of this dish!

What should I do if the shrimp turns out rubbery?
If your shrimp ends up rubbery, it may have been overcooked. Always cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes just 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat. If you accidentally overdo it, I recommend serving the dish with a generous amount of the creamy sauce to mask any texture mishaps!