Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bold Cajun flavor — this shrimp pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food with a Southern kick. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep!
📝 Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled & deveined
12 oz (340g) spaghetti or thin pasta
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained) or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or more 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:
1️⃣ Boil Pasta
Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
In a skillet, heat butter + 1 tbsp olive oil. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Cook 2–3 mins per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, add remaining oil. Sauté onion, garlic, and peppers until tender. Stir in tomatoes.
4️⃣ Build the Sauce
Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Stir in broth and cream. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5️⃣ Mix It Up
Add pasta, shrimp, and half the mozzarella. Toss until coated evenly.
6️⃣ Transfer & Top
Place in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7️⃣ Bake It Up
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
8️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with parsley and dig in! Perfect with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.