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Cajun Cream Sauce

This Cajun cream sauce transforms ordinary dishes into bold, flavor-packed meals in under 20 minutes. Creamy, spicy, and versatile, it pairs perfectly with pasta, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for restaurant-quality flavor at home.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 and 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or deep skillet
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Prepare your ingredients by mincing the garlic, grating the Parmesan, and measuring out all remaining ingredients before heating anything.
  2. Place your saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt completely and begin to foam slightly.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, stirring constantly for another 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze any flavorful bits from the pan bottom.
  5. Slowly pour the heavy cream into the pan while stirring continuously to ensure smooth incorporation with the spice mixture.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens gradually.
  7. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted.
  8. Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, and cayenne to your preference. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.

Notes

If your sauce becomes too thick after sitting, whisk in a splash of warm cream or broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan from a block for best results. Store leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat while whisking frequently.