Here’s a bold, creamy, and ultra-comforting Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake — loaded with tender shrimp, Cajun spice, cheesy goodness, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a flavorful one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining. 🍤🔥🧀
🍝 Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake
📝 Ingredients
Pasta & Shrimp:
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12 oz penne, rigatoni, or pasta of choice
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1–2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (to taste)
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1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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1 red or green bell pepper, diced (optional)
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2 tbsp flour
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2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (or Monterey Jack)
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Salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning to taste
For topping:
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for baking)
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Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
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Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Season & sear the shrimp:
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Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a little oil.
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In a hot skillet, cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside (they’ll finish in the oven).
3. Make the sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic, onion, and bell pepper until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
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Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in cream and broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
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Let simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
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Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble:
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Combine cooked pasta, sauce, and shrimp in a large bowl or directly in the baking dish.
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Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top.
5. Bake:
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
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Broil the last 2–3 minutes for a golden top (optional).
6. Serve:
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Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.
🔄 Optional Add-ins & Tips:
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Add andouille sausage for even more Cajun flair.
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Stir in a handful of baby spinach before baking.
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Use a mix of shrimp and chicken if desired.
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Make it spicier with red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.
Let me know if you want a lighter version, a gluten-free option, or a one-pan stovetop version without baking!
