Shrimp Fettuccine Bake

Shrimp Fettuccine Bake 🍤🧀

This Shrimp Fettuccine Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful casserole that combines tender shrimp, al dente fettuccine, and a rich cheese sauce infused with Cajun seasoning. Brought to you by C&R Seafood, Louisiana shrimpers with 17 years of experience, this dish captures the essence of Louisiana’s bold flavors while offering a comforting, family-friendly meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Shrimp Fettuccine Bake step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Louisiana Flavors : Packed with Cajun seasoning and fresh ingredients for an authentic taste of the bayou.
2. Creamy & Cheesy : The combination of half-and-half and Velveeta creates a luscious, indulgent sauce.
3. Easy to Make : Simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients make this recipe approachable for any home cook.
4. Perfect for Sharing : Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
5. Customizable : Add veggies, spices, or proteins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 1 package (16 oz) fettuccine noodles 🍝
• 1 cup diced onions 🧅
• 1/4 cup diced celery 🥦
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper 🌶️
• 3 tablespoons butter 🧈
• 3 tablespoons flour 🥣
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic ✂️
• 1–2 tablespoons parsley flakes 🌿
• 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste ) 🌶️
• 1 lb peeled shrimp , deveined 🍤
• 3/4 cup half-and-half 🥛
• 1 lb Velveeta Mexican-style cheese , cubed 🧀
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 🧀

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Butter or spray a 2-quart casserole dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Fettuccine

1. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse well under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter .
2. Add the diced onions , celery , and green bell pepper . Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5–7 minutes ).

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes , stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes , until fragrant.
3. Stir in the parsley flakes , Cajun seasoning , and shrimp . Cook on low heat for 5–7 minutes , or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
   • Optional : If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a splash more flour.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

1. Pour in the half-and-half and stir to combine.
2. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine with Fettuccine

1. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy shrimp mixture.
2. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Top and Bake

1. Sprinkle the top lightly with grated Parmesan cheese .
2. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with additional parsley flakes or Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh shrimp and vegetables make a noticeable difference in flavor.
2. Adjust Spice Level : Add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra heat, or reduce it for a milder dish.
3. Add Vegetables : Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted tomatoes for added nutrition.
4. Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked portions in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Perfect Pairings

This Shrimp Fettuccine Bake pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguette slices for soaking up the sauce.
• Fresh Salad : Pair with a crisp green salad or Caesar salad for balance.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of white wine for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~450 kcal
• Protein : ~25g
• Carbohydrates : ~40g
• Fat : ~22g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fettuccine Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or a potluck, this casserole delivers on taste and satisfaction. The combination of tender shrimp, al dente fettuccine, and a rich, cheesy sauce creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is indulgent.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the seasonings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your shrimp, boil those noodles, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.