Cajun Shrimp Casserole

Dive into the bold and irresistible flavors of the South with this Cajun Shrimp Casserole—a hearty, one-pan wonder that's perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Packed with succulent shrimp, tender long-grain white rice, and a medley of sautéed vegetables, this dish is seasoned to perfection with Cajun spices, smoked paprika, and fragrant thyme. A layer of sharp cheddar cheese melts into gooey, golden bliss, while the final touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness. With minimal prep time and a bake-until-bubbly finish, this comforting casserole delivers a taste of Louisiana in every cheesy, savory bite. Serve it warm for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalk, diced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and the chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Stir in the uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is partially cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7

While the rice mixture is cooking, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in a small bowl with a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a light coating.

Step 8

Once the rice mixture is ready, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 9

Gently nestle the seasoned shrimp on top of the rice mixture in an even layer.

Step 10

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire casserole.

Step 11

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 12

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 13

Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

Step 14

Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1563.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1776.0

Total Fat 92.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 43.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 1068.9mg	0%
Sodium 5243.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 94.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.7g	0%
Total Sugars 13.7g
Protein 149.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1188.4mg	0%
Iron 7.5mg	0%
Potassium 2461.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.9%

Protein: 33.1%

Carbs: 21.0%