Creamy and Spicy Cajun Shrimp Rice Made at Home

There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy and spicy Cajun shrimp rice. It has bold flavors rich sauce and tender shrimp that come together in a comforting meal you can make any night of the week. The recipe is simple and the ingredients are easy to find which makes it perfect for busy days when you still want something special. Every bite has heat creaminess and a satisfying texture that makes you want another spoonful.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup long grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup diced tomatoes drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Two tablespoons chopped parsley

Step by Step Cooking Instructions for Spicy Cajun Shrimp Rice

Prepare the shrimp

Place shrimp in a bowl, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and toss to coat. Set aside to let the flavors soak in.

Sear the shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp 2 minutes per side until pink, then remove and set aside to finish cooking in the sauce.

Cook the vegetables

Melt butter in the skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper 5 minutes, then add garlic 1 minute for the Cajun flavor base.

Add the rice

Pour the rice into the skillet and stir it with the vegetables. Let it cook for one minute. This step helps toast the rice slightly which gives it a deeper flavor as it cooks.

Pour in the liquids

Add the chicken broth heavy cream and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine everything. Season with paprika salt black pepper and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then lower the heat.

Cook the rice

Cover and simmer the rice for 15 minutes, stirring halfway. When tender and creamy, it’s ready for the next step.

Add the shrimp back in

Place the seared shrimp on top of the rice and gently fold them into the sauce. Let the shrimp warm through for about two to three minutes. This helps the flavors blend without overcooking the shrimp.

Finish with cheese and herbs

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and stir until it melts into the sauce. Add the chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. If you like more heat add a pinch more cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning. For a lighter version you can use half and half instead of heavy cream although the texture will be slightly less rich. You can also use brown rice but you will need more broth and extra cooking time. If you prefer vegetables you can add spinach peas or mushrooms. This recipe is also great with chicken sausage or even leftover grilled chicken if shrimp is not available. The flavors are flexible and the dish still turns out delicious.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this creamy Cajun shrimp rice provides a balanced mix of protein carbohydrates and fats. The shrimp offers lean protein while the rice supplies energy from complex carbohydrates. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese add richness and healthy fats that help keep you full. Vegetables provide vitamins fiber and antioxidants that support overall wellness. While this dish is indulgent the ingredients allow it to be part of a wholesome meal when enjoyed in a reasonable portion.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy and spicy Cajun shrimp rice is satisfying on its own but it pairs well with several simple sides. A crisp green salad adds freshness and helps balance the richness of the dish. Steamed broccoli roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans also make great additions. If you want extra comfort you can serve warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the top before serving adds brightness and lifts all the flavors. This dish also reheats well making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions