Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey that brings the heart and soul of Louisiana right to your dinner table! This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Casserole is not just a meal – it's an explosion of flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with every single bite. Packed with succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and a perfect blend of spices, this one-dish wonder is about to become your new favorite comfort food that's both easy to make and impossible to resist!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the Cajun seasoning. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the mixture is heated through, gently fold in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the sausage and shrimp mixture. Stir well to ensure that the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients.
- Transfer the rice and sausage mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to get slightly crispy and golden.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Casserole!
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, large shrimp and a good-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor profile.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Watch your shrimp carefully – they only need 3-4 minutes to turn pink and cook through. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your heat preference. For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Rice Matters: Use day-old rice or freshly cooked rice that's not too wet to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Let It Rest: The 5-minute resting time after baking is crucial – it helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 250mg
