Yummy Creamy Cajun Shrimp over Fluffy Rice

Creamy Cajun Shrimp over Fluffy Rice is a bold, comforting dish packed with spicy flavor, tender shrimp, and a rich, velvety sauce. The Cajun spices bring heat and depth, while the creamy base balances everything out with just the right touch of richness. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, this dish is quick to prepare and feels like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it hits every craving—spicy, creamy, savory, and filling—all in one dish. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to impress guests. The shrimp cook in minutes, the sauce comes together in one pan, and it all gets spooned over perfectly cooked rice that soaks up every bit of that creamy Cajun goodness. It’s simple comfort food with a kick.

ingredients

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

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Cajun seasoning

• Olive oil or butter

• Garlic, minced

• Onion, finely chopped

• Heavy cream

• Chicken broth

• Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Cooked white rice or jasmine rice

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

directions

1. I season the shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning, tossing to coat evenly.

2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. I remove them from the pan and set them aside.

3. In the same skillet, I sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

4. I pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

5. I reduce the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. I add Parmesan cheese (if using), and season with more Cajun spice, salt, or pepper as needed.

7. I return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce.

8. I serve the creamy Cajun shrimp over warm, fluffy rice and top with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a fast dinner with big flavor.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies. If I want a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. I’ve also served this over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. For even more flavor, I sometimes squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the shrimp and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving too long so the shrimp don’t turn rubbery. I cook fresh rice if needed or reheat it separately.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp—I just thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

It depends on the brand. I start with a light hand and add more to taste. If I want extra heat, I sprinkle in cayenne or hot sauce.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

I’ve tried it, but the sauce doesn’t thicken as well. For the best texture, I stick with cream or use evaporated milk as a lighter alternative.

What kind of rice works best?

I like using white rice or jasmine rice because they soak up the sauce so well. Brown rice or even grits also work if I want something heartier.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I make the sauce ahead and cook the shrimp fresh right before serving. This way, the shrimp stay juicy and tender, and the sauce can easily be reheated.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp over Fluffy Rice is a go-to recipe when I want something bold, satisfying, and quick. With juicy shrimp, a spicy cream sauce, and soft rice to soak it all up, it delivers on every level. Whether I’m feeding the family or treating myself to a cozy night in, this dish never lets me down.