Make dinner exciting with this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole—a bold, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s packed with vibrant ingredients and just the right kick of spice. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners, this one-pan wonder is about to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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✅ Bold Cajun flavor with smoky fire-roasted tomatoes
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✅ Quick prep – ready in just 40 minutes
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✅ Wholesome & satisfying – packed with shrimp, rice, and veggies
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✅ One-dish convenience – minimal cleanup
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✅ Customizable spice level – make it mild or spicy
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this easy casserole delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Cajun-style shrimp and rice casserole. Screenshot this list for your next grocery run!
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1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp (31-40 count)
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3 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
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4 celery stalks, chopped
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1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
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1 sweet onion, chopped
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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3 tablespoons oil
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1 (14.5 oz) can Muir Glen Organic Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
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¼ cup heavy cream
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2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste (see notes below)
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1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
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Fresh parsley and thyme, for garnish
💡 Ingredient Highlight:
Muir Glen’s Organic Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes add a signature smoky depth that sets this dish apart. Grown organically and canned within 8 hours of harvest, they’re a pantry must-have for flavor-forward meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice
Prepare rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil and sauté celery, bell pepper, and onion until soft (about 5-7 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Mix everything together
In a large mixing bowl, combine sautéed vegetables, cooked rice, and thawed shrimp. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional hot sauce.
5. Combine and bake
Pour the tomato mixture over the shrimp and rice mixture. Stir until well combined. Transfer to a greased casserole dish.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked through and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Garnish and serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and thyme before serving.
You Must Know
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🔥 Spice Tip: Cajun seasoning blends often contain salt. Adjust added salt carefully to avoid over-seasoning.
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🧂 Taste the tomato-cream mixture before combining to fine-tune salt and spice levels.
Make Ahead and Storage
Make Ahead:
You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing:
Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Seasonal Variations
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Spring/Summer: Add fresh corn, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.
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Fall/Winter: Stir in sautéed kale, mushrooms, or diced butternut squash for a heartier twist.
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Protein Swap: Try chicken, andouille sausage, or even tofu for different takes on this Cajun casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this flavorful casserole with:
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Cornbread or crusty garlic bread
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A light green salad with citrus vinaigrette
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Sautéed green beans or okra
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Chilled white wine or iced tea
No-Bake Alternative
Short on time? Try this stovetop version:
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Sauté the veggies and shrimp.
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Add tomatoes, seasoning, cream, and cooked rice.
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Stir until heated through and creamy.
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Top with herbs and serve immediately—no oven needed!
Pro Tips
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✔️ Use wild-caught shrimp for best texture and flavor.
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✔️ Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should be just pink and firm.
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✔️ Add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Q: What’s the best rice for this recipe?
Long grain white or brown rice works best. Avoid sticky rice, which can turn mushy.
Q: Is it spicy?
It has a moderate heat level. You can easily tone it down or kick it up by adjusting the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.
Q: Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. A sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar on top before baking adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight meal: quick, easy, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Thanks to Muir Glen’s Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes, every bite is smoky, rich, and unforgettable.
