Bold, creamy, and packed with flavor—this Cajun shrimp pasta bake is comfort food with a kick. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something impressive but easy.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 min | Bake: 25 min Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan
1½ cups shredded mozzarella
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain.
Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
Sauté shrimp in a large skillet with oil/butter over medium-high heat, 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper 3–4 minutes. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds.
Make the sauce: Stir in cream and broth. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan; season with salt and pepper.
Combine: Add pasta and shrimp to the sauce; toss to coat.
Bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Garnish and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Lighter: Use half-and-half and reduce cheese slightly.
Extra veggies: Spinach or mushrooms work great.
No-bake option: Skip the oven—just melt cheese in the skillet with a lid.
Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of heat—this one disappears fast! 😍
