If you’re craving a delicious and easy one-pan meal, this Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is perfect for you. It combines tender shrimp, sautéed bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all baked with melty cheese. The flavors are bold, smoky, and packed with Tex-Mex goodness. This dish is great for busy nights because it’s simple to prepare and full of satisfying ingredients. Plus, you only need one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze. Serve it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Benefits of This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy to Make
This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole requires minimal prep and cooks in one dish. You get a full meal with shrimp, rice, and veggies in just 40 minutes.
2. Balanced and Nutritious
It has protein from shrimp, fiber from vegetables, and healthy carbs from rice. This meal keeps you full and energized.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
You can make this casserole in advance and reheat it later. It stays fresh and tasty for days.
4. Family-Friendly
The flavors are mild yet flavorful, making it great for kids and adults. You can also adjust the spice level to your preference.
5. Fewer Dishes to Wash
Everything cooks in one pan, so you spend less time cleaning up after cooking.
6. Customizable to Your Taste
Swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu. Use brown rice for extra fiber or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
7. Great for Any Season
This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is perfect year-round. It’s warm and comforting in winter but also light and fresh in summer.
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Cautions to Keep in Mind
- Do not overcook the shrimp – They cook quickly and can become rubbery if baked too long.
- Use the right amount of liquid – Too much broth makes the rice mushy, and too little makes it dry.
- Let the casserole rest before serving – This helps the rice absorb any extra moisture and improves the texture.
- Check cheese ingredients if halal or vegetarian – Some cheeses contain animal-based rennet, so choose wisely.
- Adjust spice levels based on preference – If cooking for kids, reduce the chili powder for a milder taste.
- Rinse the rice before cooking – This removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Store leftovers properly – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
History of Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole
Origins of Fajitas
Fajitas started as a Tex-Mex dish in the early 1900s. Ranch workers in Texas grilled tough beef cuts over an open fire. They served the meat with tortillas, onions, and peppers. Over time, the dish became popular in restaurants. Chefs experimented with different proteins like chicken and shrimp.
Rise of Casseroles in American Cooking
Casseroles became popular in the U.S. in the 1950s. People loved them because they were easy to make and could feed a family. Casseroles combined protein, vegetables, and starch in one dish. This made them a go-to meal for busy households.
Fusion of Fajitas and Casseroles
The Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole blends the bold flavors of fajitas with the comfort of a casserole. Instead of grilling, shrimp and vegetables are baked with seasoned rice. The dish keeps the smoky, spicy taste of fajitas while adding the creaminess of melted cheese.
Cultural Significance of Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole
1. A Tex-Mex Classic with a Twist
Tex-Mex cuisine is a mix of Mexican and American flavors. It uses spices, cheese, and grilled meats to create bold and delicious dishes. The Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole keeps these flavors but makes them easier to cook at home.
2. A Dish for Families and Gatherings
Casseroles bring people together. They are easy to share and perfect for family dinners. This dish is warm, filling, and great for serving at gatherings.
3. A Meal for Every Season
Fajitas are often enjoyed in summer, but casseroles are loved in colder months. The Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole works all year. It’s light yet comforting, making it a perfect meal anytime.
4. A Reflection of Modern Cooking Trends
People today want quick and tasty meals. This dish fits the need for convenience without losing flavor. It combines fresh ingredients with an easy cooking method, making it great for busy schedules.
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Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole Recipe
Description
This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is a one-pan dish that combines the sizzling flavors of classic fajitas with the comforting heartiness of a casserole. Packed with juicy shrimp, tender bell peppers, and seasoned rice, this dish is baked to perfection with a layer of melted Monterey Jack cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, it delivers a mouthwatering Tex-Mex experience in every bite.
Ingredients
Shrimp & Seasoning
Vegetables & Aromatics
Rice & Liquids
Toppings
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
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Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) to ensure it's fully heated by the time you're ready to bake.
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Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
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Wash and pat dry 1 red, 1 green, and 1 yellow bell pepper before slicing them into thin strips.
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Peel and slice 1 medium onion into thin strips as well.
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Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely to release their aroma.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables become slightly softened.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, just until fragrant (avoid burning).
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Remove the skillet from heat and set the sautéed vegetables aside.
4. Season the Shrimp
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Peel and devein 1 pound of large shrimp if not already cleaned. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with:
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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½ teaspoon cumin
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly in the seasoning.
5. Prepare the Rice Layer
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Rinse 1 cup of uncooked white rice under cold water to remove excess starch (this helps prevent mushiness).
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Drain well and spread the rice evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
6. Assemble the Casserole
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Evenly distribute the sautéed vegetables over the rice layer.
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Arrange the seasoned shrimp on top, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
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Pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the entire mixture, making sure the rice is fully submerged.
7. Bake the Casserole (First Bake)
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Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and allow the rice to cook properly.
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Add Cheese & Finish Baking
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Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and take off the foil.
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Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the casserole.
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Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Resting Time
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Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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This allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and helps flavors meld together.
10. Garnish & Serve
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Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of freshness.
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Serve with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over each serving for added zest.
11. Enjoy!
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Serve warm as a standalone meal or pair it with a simple side salad or tortilla chips.
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 180mg60%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 5g
- 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. Flavor Profile & Inspiration
This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole combines the bold, smoky flavors of classic fajitas with the creamy, comforting texture of a baked rice dish. The combination of spiced shrimp, sautéed bell peppers, and melted cheese creates a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. Inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine, this recipe delivers the signature charred bell pepper taste, while the baked rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings.
2. Choosing the Right Shrimp
Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp
- Fresh shrimp is always the best option for optimal flavor, but frozen shrimp works well too.
- If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
Shrimp Size Matters
- Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) are best, as they remain plump and juicy even after baking.
- Smaller shrimp may overcook and become rubbery, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Rice Selection & Preparation
Best Types of Rice
- Long-grain white rice (such as Jasmine or Basmati) works best because it stays fluffy and separate after cooking.
- Brown rice can be used for added fiber, but it requires additional liquid and a longer cooking time (about 15-20 extra minutes).
Pre-Rinsing the Rice
- Always rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
4. Enhancing the Fajita Flavor
Spice Blend
- The spice combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika is what gives this casserole its signature fajita taste.
- For a spicier version, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the sautéed vegetables.
Marinating the Shrimp
- If you have extra time, let the shrimp sit in the seasoning for 10-15 minutes before assembling the casserole.
- This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp more deeply, making them even more flavorful.
5. Cheese Selection & Alternatives
- Monterey Jack cheese is chosen for its mild creaminess and excellent melting quality.
- For a sharper flavor, swap it with cheddar or pepper jack for extra spice.
- If you want a more authentic Mexican flavor, use Oaxaca cheese or Cotija cheese as a topping.
6. Cooking Tips for Perfect Texture
Preventing Dry Rice
- Ensure the rice is fully covered with broth before baking.
- If the casserole seems dry after baking, drizzle a few tablespoons of warm broth over it and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Avoiding Overcooked Shrimp
- Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it's important not to overbake.
- If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them only in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
7. Meal Prep & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- When ready to bake, add an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of broth to prevent dryness.
Freezing Instructions
- This casserole freezes well before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
8. Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with Fresh Cilantro & Lime – The citrusy zing of fresh lime balances the richness of the cheese and the spices.
- Pair with Tortilla Chips or Warm Tortillas – Scoop up the casserole with crispy tortilla chips or wrap it in a warm flour tortilla.
- Add a Cooling Element – Serve with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
9. Dietary Modifications
Make It Dairy-Free
- Omit the cheese or replace it with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Make It Low-Carb
- Swap the rice for cauliflower rice, but reduce the broth by half to avoid excess moisture.
Make It Vegan
- Replace shrimp with mushrooms, tofu, or black beans for a plant-based version.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
