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One Pan Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice dish, highlighting shrimp and rice in a creamy sauce.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice

A cozy and bold one-pan dish featuring succulent shrimp, creamy rice, and a touch of Cajun spice, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails off
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Store bought or homemade
  • 2 tbsp Butter or olive oil
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 medium Bell pepper, chopped (optional) Adds sweetness
  • 1 cup Rice, long grain white Fluffy and absorbs flavor well
  • 3 cup Chicken or seafood broth
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Or half and half for a lighter version
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional) Adds richness
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice For finishing
  • 1/4 cup Chopped parsley For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat shrimp dry and toss with Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat a large deep skillet and add butter or oil.
  3. Sear shrimp for about 1 minute per side, until pink. Remove to a plate.
  4. In the same pan, add more butter if necessary. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Cooking Rice
  1. Stir in the rice and a small sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Toast for about 1 minute.
  2. Pour in broth, scrape up any browned bits, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until the rice is tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Finishing Touches
  1. Lower the heat and stir in cream and parmesan, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Add the shrimp back in for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through.
  3. Finish with lemon juice and parsley.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to prevent rubberiness. Watch heat levels once cream is added to maintain a smooth sauce. For a richer flavor, add a bit of parmesan and butter at the end.