Cheesy Shrimp Fajita Rice Bake is a perfect mix of bold flavors and creamy textures. Juicy shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese come together in one dish. The fajita seasoning gives a smoky kick, making every bite delicious. This easy-to-make casserole is great for family dinners or meal prep. Just bake, serve, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal.
Benefits of Cheesy Shrimp Fajita Rice Bake
- One-Pan Meal
Everything cooks in one dish, so cleanup is quick and easy. - Full of Protein
Shrimp provides lean protein, keeping you full and energized. - Rich in Flavor
The blend of spices, cheese, and fajita vegetables makes it bold and tasty. - Great for Meal Prep
This casserole stores well, so you can enjoy it for days. - Customizable
You can adjust spice levels, add veggies, or swap shrimp for chicken. - Family-Friendly
Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness in every bite. - Perfect Comfort Food
The warm, creamy texture makes it a cozy and satisfying dish.
Read more : Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Cautions
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly, so bake just until pink and tender. - Watch the Salt Levels
Cheese and seasonings already add salt, so taste before adding more. - Spice Control
Fajita seasoning can be spicy, so adjust it if needed. - Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh shrimp and veggies give the best flavor and texture. - Check for Allergies
Some people are allergic to shrimp, so be mindful when serving.
Read more : Almond Chicken Stir-Fry | Quick & Healthy Recipe
Fun Tidbits About Cheesy Shrimp Fajita Rice Bake
- A Tex-Mex Classic with a Twist!
This Cheesy Shrimp Fajita Casserole brings the sizzling flavors of fajitas into a comforting bake. - Melty, Cheesy Goodness!
Every bite is loaded with gooey, melted cheese—because everything tastes better with cheese! - Dinner in One Dish!
No need for extra pots and pans. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! - Customizable for Everyone!
Love it spicy? Add jalapeños! Prefer chicken? Swap it in! - Perfect for Leftovers!
This casserole tastes even better the next day, making meal prep a breeze.
Cheesy Shrimp Fajita Rice Bake – Easy & Flavorful One-Pan Meal
Description
This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole combines juicy shrimp, sautéed bell peppers, and seasoned rice, all baked to perfection with a layer of melted cheese. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare, full of Tex-Mex flavors, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Fajita Mixture:
For the Casserole Base:
For the Vegetables:
For the Topping:
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
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Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl.
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Add olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
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Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasoning.
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Cover and let the shrimp marinate for at least 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Cook the Rice Base
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Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
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In a medium-sized pot, add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, frozen corn, black beans, taco seasoning, salt, and oregano.
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Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
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Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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After cooking, turn off the heat and set the rice aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced onions.
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Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly but still maintain their vibrant color.
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Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Preheat the Oven
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Set the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F).
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Grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble the Casserole
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In the greased baking dish, evenly spread the cooked rice mixture as the base layer.
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Arrange the sautéed bell peppers and onions over the rice.
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Place the marinated shrimp on top, distributing them evenly across the dish.
6. Add Cheese and Bake
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Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top.
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
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Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the shrimp is fully cooked and the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer.
7. Let the Casserole Rest
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Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
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This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
8. Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and red pepper flakes (if using) over the top for added freshness and spice.
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Serve hot with lime wedges on the side to enhance the flavors.
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Optionally, serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra taste.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 150mg50%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
1. One-Pan Convenience
This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is a hassle-free meal that comes together in a single dish. It saves you time on cooking and cleaning, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
2. Packed with Tex-Mex Flavors
With the smoky seasoning of fajitas, juicy shrimp, and a cheesy finish, this dish brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors to your table.
3. High in Protein and Nutrients
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while the rice, beans, and vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this casserole both hearty and nutritious.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy meal prep throughout the week. It reheats well, maintaining its texture and taste.
5. Customizable to Your Taste
This recipe allows room for customization. You can swap shrimp for chicken, add extra vegetables, or make it spicier with jalapeños.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
Shrimp
Shrimp is the star of the dish, offering a juicy texture and mild seafood flavor that pairs well with the fajita seasoning.
Rice
The rice absorbs all the flavors, creating a tender and flavorful base for the casserole. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Fajita Vegetables
Bell peppers and onions add crunch, sweetness, and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the cheese and shrimp.
Cheese
A generous layer of melted cheese gives the casserole its irresistible creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor.
Spices and Seasonings
Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and lime juice bring a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy taste to the dish, mimicking classic fajita flavors.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole
1. Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp
For the best taste and texture, use fresh shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Since they finish cooking in the oven, a short sauté before baking is enough.
3. Rinse the Rice Before Cooking
Rinsing rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming mushy when baked.
4. Add More Heat If You Like It Spicy
For a spicier version, add jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
5. Let It Rest Before Serving
Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors blend and makes serving easier.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing Suggestions
Best Side Dishes
- Guacamole or Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and a fresh contrast to the bold flavors.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Complements the Tex-Mex spices with a slightly smoky and creamy taste.
- Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Perfect for a crunchy side dish.
- Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing balance to the hearty casserole.
Drink Pairings
- Fresh Lime Agua Fresca: A light and citrusy drink that pairs well with the spices.
- Iced Hibiscus Tea: Offers a floral and tangy contrast to the dish.
- Sparkling Lemonade: The crispness cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and a satisfying cheesy finish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a family gathering, it’s sure to be a favorite!
