Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff for Creamy Weeknight Dinners

If your weeknight dinner plans are starting to feel a little “meh,” let me introduce you to your new go-to: Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff. This creamy, spicy, pasta-loaded situation is basically what would happen if Cajun shrimp and classic stroganoff had a delicious baby.

The keyword here is easy—because who has time to fuss with complicated steps after a long day of work, school runs, or, let’s be honest, just existing in 2026? Plus, if you’ve got shrimp in the fridge and a box of fettuccine in the pantry, you’re already halfway there. Whether you’re cooking for a picky eater, a seafood lover, or just treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is a cozy meal with a subtle kick that hits all the right notes. And let’s not ignore the creamy sauce—it’s dreamy. Keep reading, because this one’s about to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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What is Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?

Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is a fun twist on the classic beef stroganoff, where spicy, seasoned shrimp take center stage instead of the usual beef strips. It’s all the creamy comfort you crave—just with a bit more personality. Think smoky Cajun flavor, tender shrimp, and a silky sour cream-based sauce that coats fettuccini like a warm hug.

The mushrooms and roasted red peppers bring in some savory depth, while the capers offer a zingy contrast that wakes up your taste buds. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your comfort food cravings, but also feels just a little lighter and more modern thanks to the seafood twist. Plus, since shrimp cook faster than beef, this dish comes together quick. You don’t need hours to simmer—just 30 minutes, a couple of pans, and boom: dinner is served. It’s stroganoff reimagined for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, where comfort and flavor are equally important.

Reasons to Try Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Let’s talk real life. You’re juggling a million things, your brain is halfway fried by 6pm, and the idea of prepping a gourmet meal sounds like a joke. That’s exactly why Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff deserves a spot on your weekly menu. First of all, it’s seriously fast—shrimp cook in minutes, and the whole dish comes together in one pot and one pan. No complicated steps. No fancy ingredients. Just solid flavor and comfort.

Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Got kids? Picky partners? This one’s creamy and flavorful without being too spicy or weird. Third, it looks impressive—like something you’d order at a bistro—but it’s simple enough for a Tuesday night. Bonus: It’s a great excuse to use up those lonely mushrooms or half-jar of roasted red peppers hanging out in your fridge. And finally, it’s versatile. Want to swap the fettuccine for penne? Do it. Don’t have capers? Skip them. This is a judgment-free dinner zone.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish happen:

• 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 6 ounces fettuccini pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon chopped shallots
• ⅔ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 (7-ounce) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained and chopped
• 1 tablespoon drained capers

Kitchen Equipment Checklist:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl for mixing sauce
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions to Make Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Alright, let’s get cooking—step by step!

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Give them a good stir so every piece gets nicely coated. Let them sit and soak in all that spicy flavor while you handle the rest. This marinating time doesn’t need to be long—just enough for the seasoning to do its thing while you prep.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt (yes, it matters), and bring it to a boil. Add in your fettuccini and cook for 8–10 minutes or until it’s just al dente. Drain it well and set it aside. If it finishes cooking before the rest of the dish, drizzle it with a bit of olive oil so it doesn’t stick together like your last bad date.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Shallots

In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and sizzly, toss in your mushrooms and shallots. Stir often and let them cook down until tender and golden, about 5–6 minutes. You want them soft but not soggy. Once they’re done, transfer them to a bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan (because fewer dishes = happy cook), throw in your seasoned shrimp. Cook them for 2–3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and curl slightly. Don’t overcook them or they’ll turn rubbery—shrimp are divas like that. Once they’re just right, scoop them out and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour ⅔ cup of chicken broth into the pan and bring it to a boil. Let it reduce down to about ¼ cup. This concentrates the flavor and adds depth. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and cornstarch until smooth. Then stir in 1 cup of chicken broth. Add this creamy mixture to the pan and stir continuously over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly. Let it simmer for another minute to set the texture.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now for the fun part. Add the cooked shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, chopped roasted red bell peppers, and capers to your sauce. Stir everything together gently so the sauce coats every bite. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Plate It and Devour

Spoon the rich, creamy shrimp stroganoff over a bed of fettuccini and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Pair with a glass of white wine—or let’s be honest, whatever’s in the fridge—and enjoy the creamy, spicy magic you just created.

Looking for another easy dinner idea? You’ll love this Quick and Creamy Spinach Pasta for those veggie cravings.

What to Serve with Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

While this dish is already a star on its own, pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the sauce—something like arugula, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes works great. A slice of crusty bread is also a smart idea to soak up every drop of that creamy Cajun sauce. If you’re serving this for guests or just want to pretend you’re on a Food Network show, a simple veggie side like roasted asparagus or green beans adds color and crunch. Want a sweet finish? Try these Strawberry Pretzel Salad Bars—they’re the perfect cool and creamy contrast to the bold stroganoff.

Key Tips for Making Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

A few helpful tips make this recipe even smoother: First, use fresh or thawed shrimp—frozen right from the bag won’t get you that beautiful sear. If your Cajun seasoning is homemade, even better—store-bought works, but taste first, as some can be super salty. Don’t skip the cornstarch in the sauce; it helps it hold up instead of turning runny. And when you’re sautéing mushrooms, don’t overcrowd the pan or they’ll steam instead of brown. If you’re looking for more shrimp dinners, our Cozy Creamy Shrimp Soup is another fan favorite. Lastly, taste as you go! Stroganoff should be creamy, savory, and perfectly seasoned—not bland or overly spicy.

Storage and Reheating Tips Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store your Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you’ll want to do it gently to keep the sauce from breaking—try the stovetop on low or short 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring between each one. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Pro tip: Don’t reheat the pasta and sauce separately—it’s better when they’re cozy together in the pan. Avoid freezing this dish, though—cream sauces don’t always hold up well after thawing. If you’re planning ahead, just prep the sauce and shrimp separately and cook the pasta fresh when serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy? Absolutely. Just use a milder Cajun seasoning or cut back on the amount. You can even make your own blend and control the heat.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yep—penne, linguine, or even egg noodles work. Just choose one that holds onto creamy sauce well.
What can I substitute for sour cream? Plain Greek yogurt is a great swap. It adds the same tangy creaminess with a little more protein.
Do I have to use capers? Not at all. If they’re not your thing, leave them out or add a splash of lemon juice instead for brightness.
Can I make this ahead? You can prep the sauce and shrimp ahead, but for best texture, cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is one of those recipes that surprises you—in the best way. It’s bold without being overwhelming, creamy without being heavy, and fast without cutting corners. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or hosting friends who’ll think you secretly went to culinary school, this dish delivers flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of flair. It’s proof that shrimp dinners don’t have to be boring, and pasta can still feel exciting. Ready to mix things up from your usual dinner routine? This Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is calling your name.

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