Easy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole for Weeknight Dinners

Craving a rich, flavorful meal that brings a taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen? Look no further! This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole is perfect for home cooks, seafood lovers, and anyone who can't resist the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients List

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups long-grain rice, uncooked
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. While the oven is heating, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Rice and Spices

1. Stir in the uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and thyme. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and get slightly toasted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Transfer to Casserole Dish

1. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
2. Pour the rice and vegetable mixture into the casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Shrimp and Bake

1. Arrange the shrimp on top of the rice mixture.
2. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Add Peas and Cheese

1. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the frozen peas and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
2. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

• Spice it Up: If you love extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
• Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top before serving can brighten the flavors.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley or green onions sprinkled over the top add a touch of freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• French Bread: Serve with warm, crusty French bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts make a great side dish.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple yet mouth-watering Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole that is sure to impress family and friends. Ready to bring a taste of the South into your home? Give this recipe a try and share your experience with us!

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