Cajun Shrimp Loaded Potato: Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal, this Cajun shrimp loaded potato will hit the spot. It’s a fusion of creamy mashed potatoes, bold Cajun seasoning, smoky Andouille sausage, and succulent shrimp—all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. This dish delivers restaurant-quality comfort food right in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of Cajun spices, smoky sausage, and creamy cheese sauce.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Loaded potatoes are filling and make an excellent main course.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add extra toppings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, game nights, or potlucks.

Cajun shrimp loaded potato

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Loaded Potato:

✔ 4 large Russet potatoes
✔ 1 tablespoon olive oil
✔ ½ teaspoon salt
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Mixture:

✔ ½ pound Andouille sausage, sliced
✔ 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
✔ 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
✔ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
✔ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
✔ ½ teaspoon onion powder
✔ 2 tablespoons butter

For the Creamy Cajun Cheese Sauce:

✔ 2 tablespoons butter
✔ 1 small onion, finely chopped
✔ ½ bell pepper, diced
✔ 1 celery stalk, diced
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
✔ 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
✔ 1 cup heavy cream
✔ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✔ ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
✔ ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Toppings:

✔ Green onions, chopped
✔ Fresh parsley, chopped
✔ Sour cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean, then pierce them several times with a fork.
3. Rub each potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 50–60 minutes until tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

2. Cook the Andouille Sausage & Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.
3. Add butter to the pan, then toss in the shrimp. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and slightly crispy.
5. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Cajun Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onions, bell peppers, and celery (the Cajun Trinity) and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
5. Slowly pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add heavy cream, followed by shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
7. Season with cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and additional Cajun seasoning to taste.

4. Prepare the Loaded Potatoes

1. Slice the top off each baked potato and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl.
2. Mash the potato filling with a bit of butter, cheese, and a splash of heavy cream for extra creaminess.
3. Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the hollowed-out potato shells.

5. Assemble & Bake

1. Top each stuffed potato with the cooked Andouille sausage, shrimp, and a generous amount of Cajun cheese sauce.
2. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top.
3. Place the loaded potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy finish.

Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp Loaded Potato

✅ Use Large Russet Potatoes – They have the perfect fluffy texture for loaded potatoes.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly; remove them as soon as they turn pink.
✅ Customize the Heat – Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne to your spice preference.
✅ Make it Even Cheesier – Add extra shredded cheese inside the mashed potato filling.
✅ Prep in Advance – Bake the potatoes and cook the sausage ahead to save time.

Variations & Add-Ons

• Swap the Protein – Try blackened chicken, crawfish, or even grilled salmon instead of shrimp.
• Make it Extra Spicy – Add hot sauce or extra cayenne for a fiery kick.
• Go Low-Carb – Swap the potatoes for roasted cauliflower for a keto-friendly option.
• Add More Toppings – Crispy bacon bits, avocado slices, or extra cheese make great additions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

2. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Loaded Potatoes?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

4. Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the potatoes and fillings separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

This Cajun shrimp loaded potato is the perfect comfort food with bold flavors and a creamy, cheesy finish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will impress.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation!

Did you make this recipe? Let us know in the comments!