Cajun cream sauce is a spicy, Southern-inspired blend of cream, Cajun seasoning, and spices. Rich and tangy, it pairs perfectly with seafood, pasta, and chicken. This recipe brings bold flavor to any meal, whether for family dinners or hosting guests.
Cajun cream sauce is quick and easy to make with common ingredients. It balances spicy Cajun flavor and creamy smoothness. With just a few steps, you’ll instantly elevate your meals. Try it for a spicy, creamy touch to any dish.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
This Cajun cream sauce recipe is super simple. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful and fast.
The Cajun spices provide a smoky, peppery heat, while the creamy base adds richness and softens the overall spice. The result is a sauce with bold, warm flavors and a comforting, smooth texture, making it ideal for a variety of dishes.
You can pair this sauce with pasta, chicken, seafood, or even vegetables. Its versatility makes it a go-to recipe that you can use repeatedly.
This sauce stores well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead of time. Having it ready means you can quickly elevate any meal throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes for Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Unsalted Butter: The base for the sauce. It provides richness and depth without adding extra salt.
Garlic: Adds a savory punch, giving the sauce a fragrant and flavorful kick.
Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth, creamy texture that balances the spices and enhances the overall richness of the dish.
Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Cajun Seasoning: The star of the show, bringing bold flavors like paprika, garlic powder, and thyme to make the sauce spicy and aromatic.
Paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning.
Onion Powder: Adds a mild, savory flavor that deepens the sauce’s profile without overwhelming it.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal flavor that brightens up the rich sauce.
Pre-preparation of Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s take a quick look at the pre-preparation process:
- Gather all ingredients: Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process much smoother. You’ll be able to avoid rushing and focus on achieving the perfect texture for your sauce.
- Chop garlic: If you’re using fresh garlic, mince or chop it finely to ensure it cooks evenly in the sauce.
- Measure out spices: Cajun seasoning is a key ingredient. It can vary in heat, so adjust the amount depending on your tolerance for spice.
How to Make Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
For this creamy, zesty sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create a mouth-watering cajun cream sauce:
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s bubbling but not browned.
- Cook garlic: Add the minced garlic (or garlic powder) to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Add liquids: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken.
- Season: Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—if you want more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning.
- Simmer and thicken: Let the sauce simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will continue to thicken as it cooks.
- Serve: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Drizzle over your favorite dishes, whether it’s pasta, shrimp, chicken, or vegetables.
- Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe Variations
Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce: If you love extra heat, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also incorporate chopped fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Cajun Cream Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes even creamier.
Vegetarian Cajun Cream Sauce: To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the chicken. This variation works perfectly with roasted vegetables or pasta.
How to Serve Cajun Cream Sauce
This creamy sauce pairs beautifully with many dishes. Try it with:
Pasta: Toss it with fettuccine, linguine, or penne for a quick Cajun pasta.
Grilled Chicken: Pour the sauce over grilled or baked chicken breasts for a flavorful main course.
Shrimp: It’s a perfect sauce for shrimp scampi, adding a creamy and spicy twist to the dish.
Steak: Serve this Cajun cream sauce alongside a perfectly cooked steak for a bold flavor.
Storage Options
Cajun cream sauce can be stored for later use. Here’s how:
Refrigeration: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days.
Freezing: If you have leftover sauce, you can store it in the freezer. Place the cooled sauce in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
FAQs About Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Can I make Cajun cream sauce without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with alternatives like half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. The sauce will still be creamy but may have a slightly different flavor.
How do I make Cajun cream sauce spicier?
To make the sauce spicier, simply increase the amount of Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or add hot sauce to taste. Adjusting the spice level allows you to control the heat based on your preference.
Can I use Cajun cream sauce for pasta?
Yes, Cajun cream sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, especially with shrimp or chicken. Simply toss your cooked pasta in the sauce for a delicious, creamy dish.
How long does Cajun cream sauce last?
Cajun cream sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
