Craving a mouthwatering Southern comfort dish that'll transport you straight to the heart of coastal cuisine? Get ready to dive into the most irresistible Shrimp and Rice Casserole that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This one-pan wonder combines succulent shrimp, perfectly seasoned rice, and a burst of Cajun flavors that'll have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious homestyle meal, this Southern classic is about to become your new go-to recipe that promises to deliver comfort and excitement in every single bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add uncooked long-grain rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the rice with the vegetable mixture and allow it to lightly toast for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the rice to partially absorb the liquid.
- Transfer the rice mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until rice is tender and shrimp are cooked through.
- Remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to allow the top to slightly crisp and develop golden edges.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb remaining liquid.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving. Serve hot directly from the baking dish.
Tips
- • For the most flavorful results, use fresh, high-quality shrimp and toast the rice briefly to enhance its nutty flavor. • Don't skip the Cajun seasoning - it's the secret weapon that gives this dish its signature Southern kick! • Make sure to arrange shrimp in a single layer for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. • Use a tight-fitting aluminum foil cover to lock in moisture and ensure perfectly tender rice. • Let the casserole rest after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. • For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of baking. • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 160mg
