Description
Few dishes bring comfort to the dinner table quite like a bubbling pasta bake fresh from the oven. Creamy Cajun Shrimp Tortellini Bake combines the rich flavors of a creamy sauce, tender shrimp, cheesy tortellini, and bold Cajun seasoning into one irresistible meal. It is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable, filling the kitchen with warm aromas and bringing everyone eagerly to the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions until just al dente.
Drain and set aside. Since the tortellini will continue cooking in the oven, avoid overcooking it at
this stage. - Step 2: Season the Shrimp Place the shrimp in a bowl and toss with Cajun seasoning. The seasoning immediately coats the shrimp with vibrant color and bold flavor,
creating the signature taste of this casserole. - Step 3: Cook the Shrimp Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they begin turning pink. Remove them from the skillet and set aside. They will finish cooking during
baking. - Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this stage is incredible, with the vegetables absorbing the
flavorful bits left behind by the shrimp. - Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the cheese
melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. - Step 6: Combine the Ingredients Add the cooked tortellini and shrimp to the sauce. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated. The creamy sauce wraps around the pasta while the shrimp add a delicious seafood
richness. - Step 7: Assemble the Bake Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 8: Bake Until Golden Bake the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Tortellini Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until
bubbly and heated through. During the final few minutes, add the remaining mozzarella cheese and continue
baking until melted and lightly golden. - Step 9: Garnish and Serve Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.
Notes
Refrigerated tortellini works best for this recipe.
Heavy cream provides the richest texture.
For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning.
Fresh parsley adds brightness and color to the finished dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 33g