Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Cajun shrimp and rice is a one-skillet USA Southern-inspired weeknight bowl—smoky spices, peppers, and plump shrimp over fluffy rice. Cook shrimp to opaque 145°F and fold into the seasoned rice for bold comfort without takeout.
🛒Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to seasoning saltiness)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Hot sauce and lemon wedges
🔧Kitchen Tools Needed
- Deep skillet with lid
- Instant-read thermometer
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
📝Instructions
- 1
Toss shrimp with 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high; cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and 145°F. Transfer to a plate.
- 2
Add remaining oil and butter. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning; cook 30 seconds.
- 3
Stir in rice until coated. Add broth, tomatoes, and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce to low, and simmer 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- 4
Fluff rice; fold shrimp back in and warm 1–2 minutes. Top with green onions, hot sauce, and lemon.
- 5
Refrigerate within 2 hours up to 2–3 days; reheat to 165°F with a splash of broth.
🥗Nutrition Information
⚡Calories per serving: 420
🏷️Recipe Tags
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Homemade Cajun seasoning?
Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Brown rice?
Needs more liquid and 40+ minutes; cook rice separately if preferred.
Too spicy?
Use mild Cajun blend and skip extra cayenne.
Add sausage?
Brown sliced andouille first; ensure sausage is fully heated through.
Food safety?
Shrimp 145°F; leftovers reheated to 165°F; fridge within 2 hours.
