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Golden Cajun shrimp pasta bake with creamy cheese sauce, penne pasta, and seasoned shrimp baked until bubbly.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake

Giulia, a passionate food enthusiast at Eat Every Slice, smiling in a bright kitchen filled with fresh ingredients and Italian-American inspiration.Giulia M.
A delicious and creamy Cajun shrimp pasta bake that's perfect for family dinners, combining the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender shrimp and pasta.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Cajun
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking dish 9x13 inches
  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 pot

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the butter, diced bell pepper, and chopped onion. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Pour in the heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and add it to the creamy sauce. Add the cooked shrimp and mix everything until well combined.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese, if using.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serving

  • Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with your choice of sides.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use chicken instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
How to Serve: Serve with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then bake when ready to serve.
Keyword baked shrimp pasta, Cajun pasta bake, Cajun shrimp pasta, creamy pasta recipes, shrimp pasta bake