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Creamy garlic mushroom pasta is a dish that epitomizes comfort food, offering a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. This pasta dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together the earthy taste of mushrooms, the aromatic punch of garlic, and the luxurious creaminess that coats each strand of pasta perfectly. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply indulge in a cozy night in, creamy garlic mushroom pasta is a versatile dish that suits every occasion.

Smoky Cajun Shrimp Étouffée

Discover the comfort of homemade creamy garlic mushroom pasta with this ultimate guide! This flavorful dish combines the earthiness of fresh mushrooms with aromatic garlic and a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for any occasion. Learn the secrets to selecting the best ingredients, from fresh pasta to herbs, and follow simple steps to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Elevate your cooking skills and impress your guests with this gourmet yet easy-to-make dish that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Enjoy a cozy night in or impress at dinner parties with this delightful recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

2 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)

2 tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust this based on your spice preference)

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steamed white rice (for serving)

Instructions
 

Make the Roux: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour as the oil heats. Stir continuously for about 15-20 minutes until you achieve a rich, dark brown color that resembles chocolate. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

    Add Vegetables: Once the roux is the perfect color, add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery (known as the holy trinity of Cajun cooking). Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

      Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, followed by the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly.

        Add Stock: Gradually pour in the seafood stock while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

          Add Shrimp: Carefully introduce the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as desired.

            Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the pot before serving. Ladle the smoky Cajun shrimp étouffée generously over a mound of steamed white rice.

              Garnish and Enjoy: Finish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a vibrant touch and added flavor.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the étouffée in shallow bowls to show off the vibrant colors, and consider adding a lime wedge on the side for a zesty pop!