Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp over Fluffy Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1–2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 onion, diced; 1/2 bell pepper, diced (optional); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood stock; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 4 cups cooked white or brown rice; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Creamy Cajun Shrimp over Fluffy Rice is a bold, comforting dish that brings the heat of Cajun spices and the richness of cream together in one irresistible bite. Juicy shrimp are seared and simmered in a velvety, spiced sauce, then spooned over perfectly cooked rice for a hearty, soul-satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish comes together so quickly but tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of kick, while the creamy sauce mellows it out into something warm and deeply flavorful. It’s one of those meals I make when I want something comforting, flavorful, and a little fancy—without too much effort. The rice soaks up all that sauce, and every bite feels like a reward.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil or butter
Garlic, minced
Onion, diced
Bell pepper, diced (optional)
Heavy cream
Chicken broth or seafood stock
Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)
Cooked white or brown rice
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

directions

I start by seasoning the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper, then set them aside while I prep the sauce.
In a skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. I sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3–5 minutes.
I add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until they’re just pink and opaque. Then I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
In the same skillet, I pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. I let it reduce slightly, then stir in the cream and a little more Cajun seasoning.
I simmer the sauce for 4–5 minutes until it thickens slightly. If I want extra richness, I stir in a handful of Parmesan.
I return the shrimp to the sauce, toss to coat, and let everything simmer for another 2 minutes until warmed through.
I spoon the creamy shrimp mixture over freshly cooked rice and finish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special and flavorful.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the shrimp for scallops or chunks of chicken. I’ve also added mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies. For a low-carb version, I serve it over cauliflower rice or sautéed zucchini noodles. And when I want to turn up the heat, I add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. I avoid overcooking the shrimp on reheating to keep them tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking so they sear nicely and don’t water down the sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a medium level of heat. I adjust it easily by using more or less Cajun seasoning or adding a spicy element like cayenne or hot sauce if I want more heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve used full-fat coconut milk instead of cream. It gives the sauce a slightly different flavor but still makes it creamy and delicious.

What kind of rice works best?

I usually serve it over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, but brown rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes all work well with the creamy sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve made the sauce ahead and just cooked the shrimp fresh before serving. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days and reheats well.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp over Fluffy Rice is one of those recipes I always come back to. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and completely comforting. Whether I’m cooking for family or just treating myself to a cozy dinner, this dish delivers bold taste and creamy goodness every time.