A delightful Caribbean-inspired shrimp and rice casserole with a cheesy topping.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
In a sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion, garlic, and green pepper until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn pink.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and cooked rice, mixing well.
Ensure the rice is evenly coated with the tomato mixture.
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread evenly.
Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
For a golden crust, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Check halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooling allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.