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Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake Hearty and Flavorful Dish

by on December 22, 2024

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Dive into the rich flavors of the South with my Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake! This hearty dish blends tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and zesty Cajun seasoning, all baked to perfection. In just a few steps, you can create a meal that impresses friends and family alike. Ready to spice up your dinner? Let’s get cooking!

- 8 ounces penne pasta - 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) To make a great Cajun shrimp pasta bake, you need a few key ingredients. Start with penne pasta, which holds the sauce well. You’ll need a pound of shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking. Cajun seasoning brings the heat and flavor. I like to use one tablespoon, but you can adjust it to your taste. A tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the veggies. You need one small onion, diced finely, to add sweetness. Next, gather some extra ingredients. Minced garlic adds a rich taste. A bell pepper, either red or green, adds crunch and color. The dish needs creaminess, so one cup of heavy cream is perfect. Cheddar cheese is a must for that gooey texture. Use one cup, shredded. For added flavor, include one cup of diced tomatoes. You can use fresh or canned, depending on what you have. For seasoning and topping, you'll want half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Finally, chop fresh parsley for a beautiful finish. With these ingredients, you can create a hearty and flavorful Cajun shrimp pasta bake that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cook 8 ounces of penne pasta until al dente, then set aside. - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. - Add 1 small diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper. Sauté them until soft, about 5 minutes. - Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Season 1 pound of shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. - Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. - Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and half of 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. - Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. - Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. - Allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley. To get the best texture, cook the penne pasta al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. This helps it hold up well during baking. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This keeps them tender and juicy. Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Adjust it to match your taste. If you want more depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This adds a savory note that complements the dish well. Using high-quality cheese makes a big difference. It melts better and gives a richer flavor. After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should only be cooked until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Cheese Selection: For a more complex flavor, try mixing different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, with the cheddar. Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a pop of flavor and freshness. Make Ahead: This pasta bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining. {{image_2}} You can switch up the seafood in this dish. If you don't want shrimp, use scallops or lobster. Both options add a sweet, rich flavor. For an extra special touch, sauté some crab meat. It gives a luxurious feel to the bake. Adding vegetables can boost the dish's health and flavor. Spinach or zucchini mix in well and add color. You can also toss in some broccoli. It not only adds nutrition but also makes the dish vibrant and appealing. If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free pasta. It works just as well in this recipe. For those who are dairy-free, swap out heavy cream for plant-based cream. This keeps the dish creamy without dairy. To keep your Cajun shrimp pasta bake fresh, store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 3-4 days for the best flavor. This dish tastes great, but it can lose its charm if left too long. You can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool first. To reheat, thaw it overnight in your fridge before cooking. This helps keep the texture just right. For the best results, reheat your pasta bake in the oven. It warms evenly and keeps the top crispy. If you need a quicker option, use the microwave. Just add a little moisture, like a splash of water, to keep it from drying out. Enjoy your delicious meal again! Yes, just thaw and dry them before cooking. Frozen shrimp works well. It saves time and still tastes great. Just remember to pat them dry. This step keeps extra water out of your dish. Increase Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. More seasoning gives a kick that many love. Hot sauce can add flavor and heat too. Add a little at a time, so it doesn’t overwhelm the dish. Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just mix everything and store it in the fridge. When you're ready, pop it in the oven. It saves time and still tastes fresh. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp salad adds freshness. Garlic bread brings warmth and heartiness to the table. Together, they round out the dish nicely. Enjoy a full-flavored meal that satisfies. This Cajun shrimp pasta bake blends rich flavors with easy steps. You learned how to cook pasta, sauté shrimp, and layer tasty ingredients. Adjust seasonings to fit your taste and explore fun variations. Remember, this dish is great for leftovers and can be stored easily. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends. Cooking should be fun and satisfying, and this recipe delivers that every time. Now, get cooking and enjoy your delicious creation!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick that elevates the dish, making each bite an explosion of flavor.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
  3. Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, indulgent topping that brings everything together.
  4. Versatile Dish: This pasta bake is not only delicious but can also be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 ounces penne pasta

– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 small onion, diced

Additional Ingredients

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

Seasoning and Toppings

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

To make a great Cajun shrimp pasta bake, you need a few key ingredients. Start with penne pasta, which holds the sauce well. You’ll need a pound of shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.

Cajun seasoning brings the heat and flavor. I like to use one tablespoon, but you can adjust it to your taste. A tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the veggies. You need one small onion, diced finely, to add sweetness.

Next, gather some extra ingredients. Minced garlic adds a rich taste. A bell pepper, either red or green, adds crunch and color. The dish needs creaminess, so one cup of heavy cream is perfect.

Cheddar cheese is a must for that gooey texture. Use one cup, shredded. For added flavor, include one cup of diced tomatoes. You can use fresh or canned, depending on what you have.

For seasoning and topping, you’ll want half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Finally, chop fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.

With these ingredients, you can create a hearty and flavorful Cajun shrimp pasta bake that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Pasta

– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

– Cook 8 ounces of penne pasta until al dente, then set aside.

Cooking the Shrimp and Vegetables

– In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

– Add 1 small diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper. Sauté them until soft, about 5 minutes.

– Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

– Season 1 pound of shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combining Ingredients

– Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

– Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and half of 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

– Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Baking Process

– Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

– Allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get the best texture, cook the penne pasta al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. This helps it hold up well during baking. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This keeps them tender and juicy.

Enhancing Flavor

Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Adjust it to match your taste. If you want more depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This adds a savory note that complements the dish well.

Baking Tips

Using high-quality cheese makes a big difference. It melts better and gives a richer flavor. After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should only be cooked until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Cheese Selection: For a more complex flavor, try mixing different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, with the cheddar.
  3. Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a pop of flavor and freshness.
  4. Make Ahead: This pasta bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Variations

Seafood Alternatives

You can switch up the seafood in this dish. If you don’t want shrimp, use scallops or lobster. Both options add a sweet, rich flavor. For an extra special touch, sauté some crab meat. It gives a luxurious feel to the bake.

Vegetable Additions

Adding vegetables can boost the dish’s health and flavor. Spinach or zucchini mix in well and add color. You can also toss in some broccoli. It not only adds nutrition but also makes the dish vibrant and appealing.

Dietary Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free pasta. It works just as well in this recipe. For those who are dairy-free, swap out heavy cream for plant-based cream. This keeps the dish creamy without dairy.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cajun shrimp pasta bake fresh, store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 3-4 days for the best flavor. This dish tastes great, but it can lose its charm if left too long.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool first. To reheat, thaw it overnight in your fridge before cooking. This helps keep the texture just right.

Reheating Tips

For the best results, reheat your pasta bake in the oven. It warms evenly and keeps the top crispy. If you need a quicker option, use the microwave. Just add a little moisture, like a splash of water, to keep it from drying out. Enjoy your delicious meal again!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and dry them before cooking. Frozen shrimp works well. It saves time and still tastes great. Just remember to pat them dry. This step keeps extra water out of your dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. More seasoning gives a kick that many love. Hot sauce can add flavor and heat too. Add a little at a time, so it doesn’t overwhelm the dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just mix everything and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven. It saves time and still tastes fresh.

What should I serve with Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake?

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp salad adds freshness. Garlic bread brings warmth and heartiness to the table. Together, they round out the dish nicely. Enjoy a full-flavored meal that satisfies.

This Cajun shrimp pasta bake blends rich flavors with easy steps. You learned how to cook pasta, sauté shrimp, and layer tasty ingredients. Adjust seasonings to fit your taste and explore fun variations. Remember, this dish is great for leftovers and can be stored easily. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends. Cooking should be fun and satisfying, and this recipe delivers that every time. Now, get cooking and enjoy your delicious creatio

- 8 ounces penne pasta - 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) To make a great Cajun shrimp pasta bake, you need a few key ingredients. Start with penne pasta, which holds the sauce well. You’ll need a pound of shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking. Cajun seasoning brings the heat and flavor. I like to use one tablespoon, but you can adjust it to your taste. A tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the veggies. You need one small onion, diced finely, to add sweetness. Next, gather some extra ingredients. Minced garlic adds a rich taste. A bell pepper, either red or green, adds crunch and color. The dish needs creaminess, so one cup of heavy cream is perfect. Cheddar cheese is a must for that gooey texture. Use one cup, shredded. For added flavor, include one cup of diced tomatoes. You can use fresh or canned, depending on what you have. For seasoning and topping, you'll want half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Finally, chop fresh parsley for a beautiful finish. With these ingredients, you can create a hearty and flavorful Cajun shrimp pasta bake that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cook 8 ounces of penne pasta until al dente, then set aside. - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. - Add 1 small diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper. Sauté them until soft, about 5 minutes. - Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Season 1 pound of shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. - Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. - Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and half of 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. - Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. - Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. - Allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley. To get the best texture, cook the penne pasta al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. This helps it hold up well during baking. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This keeps them tender and juicy. Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Adjust it to match your taste. If you want more depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This adds a savory note that complements the dish well. Using high-quality cheese makes a big difference. It melts better and gives a richer flavor. After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should only be cooked until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Cheese Selection: For a more complex flavor, try mixing different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, with the cheddar. Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a pop of flavor and freshness. Make Ahead: This pasta bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining. {{image_2}} You can switch up the seafood in this dish. If you don't want shrimp, use scallops or lobster. Both options add a sweet, rich flavor. For an extra special touch, sauté some crab meat. It gives a luxurious feel to the bake. Adding vegetables can boost the dish's health and flavor. Spinach or zucchini mix in well and add color. You can also toss in some broccoli. It not only adds nutrition but also makes the dish vibrant and appealing. If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free pasta. It works just as well in this recipe. For those who are dairy-free, swap out heavy cream for plant-based cream. This keeps the dish creamy without dairy. To keep your Cajun shrimp pasta bake fresh, store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 3-4 days for the best flavor. This dish tastes great, but it can lose its charm if left too long. You can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool first. To reheat, thaw it overnight in your fridge before cooking. This helps keep the texture just right. For the best results, reheat your pasta bake in the oven. It warms evenly and keeps the top crispy. If you need a quicker option, use the microwave. Just add a little moisture, like a splash of water, to keep it from drying out. Enjoy your delicious meal again! Yes, just thaw and dry them before cooking. Frozen shrimp works well. It saves time and still tastes great. Just remember to pat them dry. This step keeps extra water out of your dish. Increase Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. More seasoning gives a kick that many love. Hot sauce can add flavor and heat too. Add a little at a time, so it doesn’t overwhelm the dish. Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just mix everything and store it in the fridge. When you're ready, pop it in the oven. It saves time and still tastes fresh. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp salad adds freshness. Garlic bread brings warmth and heartiness to the table. Together, they round out the dish nicely. Enjoy a full-flavored meal that satisfies. This Cajun shrimp pasta bake blends rich flavors with easy steps. You learned how to cook pasta, sauté shrimp, and layer tasty ingredients. Adjust seasonings to fit your taste and explore fun variations. Remember, this dish is great for leftovers and can be stored easily. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends. Cooking should be fun and satisfying, and this recipe delivers that every time. Now, get cooking and enjoy your delicious creation!

Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake

A delicious and creamy pasta bake with Cajun-seasoned shrimp, perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (red or green)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and diced tomatoes, simmering for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
  • Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and half of the cheddar cheese into the skillet mixture.
  • Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley.

Notes

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
Keyword bake, Cajun, pasta, shrimp

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