Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe

Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe – Easy One-Pot Dinner

Make this flavorful Cajun Shrimp and Rice with juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, bell peppers, onion, celery, garlic, and bold Cajun seasoning. An easy one-pot Southern dinner.

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Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice is a flavorful one-pot meal featuring juicy shrimp, fluffy seasoned rice, colorful bell peppers, onion, celery, and plenty of garlic. Cajun seasoning gives the dish a delicious Louisiana-inspired kick without making it complicated.

It's hearty enough for a family dinner, yet quick enough for a busy weeknight. Serve it with a fresh salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You'll Love This Cajun Shrimp and Rice

• 🍤 Juicy, flavorful shrimp
• 🍚 Fluffy Cajun-seasoned rice
• 🌶️ Bold Louisiana-inspired flavor
• 🫑 Loaded with colorful vegetables
• 🍲 Convenient one-pot preparation
• ⏱️ Ready in about 40 minutes
• 🔥 Easy to make mild or spicy
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Perfect for a family dinner

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Rice

• 1½ cups long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
• 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Rice

1. Season the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

Place them in a bowl and toss with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and minced garlic.

Set aside while you prepare the rice.

2. Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp in a single layer.

Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until they become opaque and are nearly cooked through.

Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Don't overcook them at this stage. They'll return to the pan later.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce the heat to medium.

Add the onion, bell peppers, and celery to the same pan.

Cook for approximately 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds.

4. Add the Rice

Stir the uncooked rice into the vegetables.

Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly coated with the seasoned oil.

5. Add the Seasonings

Stir in the tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and optional cayenne pepper.

Cook for about 1 minute.

6. Add the Broth

Pour in the seafood or chicken broth.

Add the bay leaf and stir well.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

7. Cook the Rice

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan tightly.

Cook for approximately 18–22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Avoid repeatedly lifting the lid because the trapped steam helps cook the rice evenly.

8. Add the Shrimp

Once the rice is almost finished, arrange the cooked shrimp over the rice.

Cover and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked and heated through.

Shrimp should reach 145°F (63°C) and appear opaque.

9. Rest the Dish

Turn off the heat and leave the pan covered for 5 minutes.

Remove the bay leaf.

10. Fluff and Serve

Gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Add lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve immediately.

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Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp and Rice

Choose large shrimp

Large or jumbo shrimp are easier to cook properly and remain juicy.

Pat the shrimp dry

Dry shrimp sear better and develop more flavor.

Don't overcook the shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them from the pan as soon as they are nearly cooked and return them toward the end.

Use long-grain rice

Long-grain white rice produces separate, fluffy grains that work particularly well in this recipe.

Keep the lid closed

Steam is essential for cooking the rice properly.

Taste the broth

Cajun seasoning can contain quite a bit of salt. Taste the cooking liquid before adding additional salt.

Let the dish rest

A short resting period allows the remaining moisture to distribute through the rice.

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What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best.

You can use:

• Fresh shrimp
• Frozen shrimp
• Peeled shrimp
• Shell-on shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

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Cajun Shrimp and Rice Variations

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice

Add sliced andouille or smoked sausage for a hearty Louisiana-style combination.

Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Rice

Add bite-sized pieces of seasoned chicken for a filling surf-and-turf meal.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or extra Cajun seasoning.

Cajun Shrimp and Tomato Rice

Add diced tomatoes for extra moisture and a slightly tangy flavor.

Cajun Shrimp Brown Rice

Use brown rice and adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the package directions.

Cajun Shrimp and Vegetable Rice

Add corn, peas, mushrooms, or additional vegetables.

Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Rice

Stir shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the finished rice for a creamy variation.

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What to Serve With Cajun Shrimp and Rice

This dish can be served on its own, but it's delicious with:

• Cornbread
• Garlic bread
• Southern coleslaw
• Green salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Green beans
• Roasted vegetables
• Corn on the cob
• Sautéed greens

For a Louisiana-inspired dinner, pair it with Cajun Chicken, Cajun Shrimp Pasta, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, Shrimp Étouffée, or Cajun Gumbo.

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How to Store Cajun Shrimp and Rice

Let leftovers cool promptly and place them in an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from becoming dry.

Reheat thoroughly until steaming hot.

Because shrimp can become tough when repeatedly reheated, reheat only the amount you plan to eat.

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Can You Freeze Cajun Shrimp and Rice?

Yes, although the shrimp and rice may have a slightly different texture after freezing.

For best quality, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cajun shrimp and rice spicy?

It can be mild or spicy. The heat depends mainly on the Cajun seasoning and optional cayenne pepper. Adjust both to your preference.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires more cooking time and liquid. Adjust the recipe according to the rice package instructions.

Why is my rice mushy?

Too much liquid, overcooking, or excessive stirring can cause mushy rice. Measure the broth carefully and avoid stirring while the rice cooks.

Why is my rice still hard?

The rice may need additional cooking time or liquid. Add a small amount of hot broth, cover, and continue cooking over low heat.

Can I add sausage?

Absolutely. Andouille sausage is particularly delicious with Cajun shrimp and rice.

Can I use chicken broth instead of seafood broth?

Yes. Chicken broth works very well and is often more convenient.

How do I keep shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook them briefly over medium-high heat and avoid leaving them in the pan longer than necessary.

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Nutrition Facts

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 485 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 190 mg
• Sodium: 1,050 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g

Nutrition information is an estimate and varies according to ingredients, brands, Cajun seasoning, shrimp size, and serving portions.

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Similar Recipes

• Cajun Chicken and Rice
• Cajun Shrimp Pasta
• Cajun Chicken Pasta
• New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
• Shrimp Étouffée
• Shrimp Jambalaya
• Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo
• Cajun Gumbo
• Crawfish Boil
• Red Beans and Rice

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Final Thoughts

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe is a delicious combination of tender shrimp, fluffy seasoned rice, colorful vegetables, and bold Cajun flavors. It's an easy one-pot meal that brings the comforting taste of Louisiana cooking to your dinner table.

For the best results, sear the shrimp briefly, use long-grain rice, keep the lid closed while the rice cooks, and return the shrimp near the end. This keeps the shrimp juicy while allowing the rice to absorb all those delicious Cajun flavors.

Serve it with warm cornbread or a crisp salad for a satisfying weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

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🍤 Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern American
Category: Dinner / One-Pot Meal

Ingredients

Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp
• 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Rice:

• 1½ cups long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 celery stalks
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne, optional
• 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, pepper, and garlic.
2. Sear shrimp in olive oil and butter for 1–2 minutes per side; remove.
3. Sauté onion, bell peppers, and celery for 5–6 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds.
5. Stir in rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
6. Add tomato paste and seasonings.
7. Pour in broth and add bay leaf.
8. Cover and simmer on low for 18–22 minutes.
9. Return shrimp to the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes.
10. Rest covered for 5 minutes.
11. Remove bay leaf and fluff the rice.
12. Add lemon juice, garnish with parsley, and serve.

⭐ Best Tip: Don't overcook the shrimp. Briefly searing them first and returning them near the end gives you juicy shrimp while allowing the rice to absorb the full Cajun flavor.