CREAMY CAJUN SHRIMP PASTA BAKE
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and 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 (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
Directions:
1️⃣. Cook pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣. Cook shrimp: In a large skillet, heat butter and 1 tbsp oil. Season shrimp lightly with Cajun seasoning and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣. Sauté vegetables: Add remaining oil to skillet. Sauté onion, garlic, and peppers until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes.
4️⃣. Make sauce: Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and pepper. Stir in chicken broth and cream. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5️⃣. Combine: Toss in pasta, shrimp, and half the mozzarella. Mix well so everything is coated in sauce.
6️⃣. Bake: Transfer to a greased aluminum pan or casserole dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7️⃣. Finish: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling with golden spots.
8️⃣. Serve: Garnish with parsley. Serve hot!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Calories: ~640 kcal per serving
Servings: 4–6
