If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings bold flavors to your dinner table, then this Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is the perfect dish! 

Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole

Combining the zesty flavors of fajitas with the heartiness of a rice casserole, this one-pan meal is a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you need to impress guests with minimal effort.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!

  • Packed with Protein: Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and pairs beautifully with the fajita seasoning.

  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Fajitas:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Casserole:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced

  • 1/2 onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or Monterey Jack)

  • 1/2 cup corn (optional)

  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings (Optional):

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Sliced avocado

  • Sour cream

  • Salsa

  • Sliced jalapeños

  • Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly.

  2. Cover and let marinate while preparing the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Base

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with a little olive oil.

  2. In the casserole dish, add rice, broth, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, corn, and black beans. Stir to combine.

  3. Season with salt, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.

  4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

  1. While the casserole is baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a teaspoon of olive oil.

  2. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Remove the casserole dish from the oven and stir the rice mixture.

  2. Layer the cooked shrimp on top and sprinkle shredded cheese over everything.

  3. Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

  2. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, and lime wedges.

  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

  • Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute it with chicken, tofu, or even steak.

  • Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.

  • Make It Low-Carb: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes! However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes and add an extra ½ cup of broth.

2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole (except for the shrimp and cheese) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the instructions and add the shrimp towards the end.

3. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

4. Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the shrimp. Assemble the casserole, let it cool completely, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, bake as directed, and add freshly cooked shrimp before serving.

5. What Side Dishes Go Well with Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with:

  • A simple side salad

  • Warm tortillas for scooping

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Refried beans

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fajita Rice Casserole is a delicious and effortless way to enjoy the flavors of fajitas in a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!

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