Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake
Indulge in this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake, packed with juicy shrimp, smoky Cajun spices, and melty cheese. A comforting, flavorful dinner perfect for seafood lovers creamy, spicy, and baked to golden perfection!
Ingredients:
Serves 4–6
1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or thin pasta
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained) or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth (or seafood stock)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt butter and add 1 tbsp olive oil. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies:
Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté onions, garlic, and diced peppers until tender. Stir in tomatoes.
Create the Sauce:
Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently. Let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and half the mozzarella to the skillet. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
Bake to Perfection:
Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish or aluminum pan. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Finish & Serve:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations:
Add sliced sausage or crab meat for an extra Cajun kick.
Substitute penne or fettuccine for a heartier texture.
Use smoked gouda or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake, Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Bake, Spicy Shrimp Pasta Casserole, Baked Shrimp Pasta with Cream Sauce, Easy Cajun Seafood Pasta Recipe
