Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole

By CandyH

Recipe from: Created by Cathy Pollak for NoblePig.com | Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/3 cup finely diced shallots
• 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
• 1 pound large shrimp, deviened and peeled (41/50)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 12 oz shredded pepper jack cheese
• 4 oz shredded Gruyere cheese
• 4 oz shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 can (15.5 oz) chili beans, drained
• 4-1/2 cups cooked long-grain rice
• 1 jar (2 oz) pimentos, drained
• 3 Tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs

Details

Adapted from noblepig.com

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

In a large, deep, nonstick skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Saute shallots and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning until softened, about 2 minutes. Add shrimp and cook until just pink, about another two minutes. Add flour and stir until fully incorporated. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly, breaking up any little lumps. Bring to a slight boil and cook for one minute.

Slowly add all three cheeses, stirring and making sure they are fully incorporated. Stir in remaining 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, cayenne, chili beans, rice and pimentos. Pour into a 2-quart casserole dish.
Melt 3 Tablespoons butter and mix with Panko bread crumbs. Sprinkle over the top. Bake for 20 minutes