Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake
Description
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake is a rich, comforting dish featuring tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce baked with melted cheese until golden and bubbly. It combines bold Southern-style flavors with a satisfying creamy texture, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or special occasions.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Shrimp
300 g (10 oz) penne or rotini pasta
400 g (14 oz) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (full fat preferred)
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Topping
½ cup shredded mozzarella
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Shrimp
Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat.
Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
Remove and set aside (avoid overcooking).
3. Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan, cook onion until soft.
Add garlic and bell pepper; sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually add milk while whisking continuously.
Stir in heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, pepper, and salt.
Simmer until thickened (3–5 minutes).
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan; stir until melted.
5. Combine Everything
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and sauce.
Mix well and transfer to a greased baking dish.
6. Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Serve
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
2. How spicy is Cajun shrimp pasta bake?
It has moderate heat. Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spiciness.
3. Can I substitute the shrimp?
Yes. Chicken, salmon, or mushrooms work well as alternatives.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
6. Can I make it lighter?
Use low-fat milk, reduce cheese, and replace cream with evaporated milk.
- Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Cholesterol: 210 mg
Sodium: 780 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g