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Shrimp Cajun Macaroni Bake

This Shrimp Cajun Macaroni Bake is creamy, spicy, and cheesy with tender shrimp and bold Cajun flavors—a perfect crowd-pleaser for cozy dinners!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the shrimp and vegetables

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the Cajun seasoning. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Create the creamy Cajun sauce

  • To the skillet with shrimp and veggies, add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice) and the heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce

  • Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, stirring to coat every piece in the rich, spicy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once everything is well combined.

Step 5: Assemble and bake

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and shrimp mixture to your baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
  • Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with freshly chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking dish (about 9x9 inches)
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Cheese Grater
  • Colander

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp in the skillet; they will continue cooking in the oven and can become rubbery.
  • For extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.