This Fajita Shrimp Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that combines shrimp, colorful peppers, and spices all baked together. It’s like a fiesta in a dish!
I love how simple it is to prepare—just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and wait for that delightful smell! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp makes this dish special, but feel free to use frozen shrimp to save time. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry. You can substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red, yellow, and green peppers adds color and sweetness. If you have other peppers like orange or even poblano, use those instead! For less sweetness, try using green bell peppers only.
Cheese: I love using a Mexican cheese blend for the flavor kick. If you want something lighter, consider using part-skim mozzarella. For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese shreds can work too, though they may not melt the same way.
Rice: Both white and brown rice are great, but you can swap them with quinoa for a protein boost or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp correctly is crucial to avoid a rubbery texture. Start by tossing the raw shrimp in seasonings, so they absorb flavors well. When you sauté them, they only need about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on their color—when they turn from gray to pink, they’re ready!
- Prepare the shrimp with seasoning and oil, making sure they’re evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer to avoid steaming.
- Cook until pink and opaque; this is a sign that they are cooked through but not overdone.
How to Make Fajita Shrimp Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Mozzarella or Mexican blend)
For Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped for garnish
- 1 lime (optional for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fajita Shrimp Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, for a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and that the cheese gets perfectly melted and bubbly.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with half of the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated in the seasoning for maximum flavor.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and start to caramelize. This step will bring out their natural sweetness!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once done, remove from heat.
5. Combine Ingredients:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the shrimp and bell pepper mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure each bite has a good amount of shrimp and veggies.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it cook nicely in the oven.
7. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy layer once baked!
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with some light browning on top. The aroma will be wonderful!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Garnish the casserole with chopped cilantro or green onions for freshness. If you like, squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top before serving for an extra zing!
10. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful fajita shrimp casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the frozen shrimp are fully thawed before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture!
How Can I Make This Casserole Spicier?
If you’re looking to add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños into the mixture. You can also serve the finished casserole with hot sauce on the side.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Something Else?
Yes! If you want a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice. Quinoa is also a great substitute that adds extra protein. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if needed!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or oven, warming gently to keep the shrimp from overcooking. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner!
