This Shrimp Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dream come true with a delicious seafood twist! Imagine tender shrimp nestled amongst perfectly cooked macaroni, all coated in a rich and flavorful cheese sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy: This mac and cheese is loaded with a blend of cheeses for the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
- Flavorful shrimp: The shrimp adds a delicious seafood twist and a boost of protein.
- Easy to make: This recipe is simple to follow and comes together in just 35 minutes.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients for Shrimp Mac and Cheese
This recipe uses a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful mac and cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Macaroni: Use your favorite type of macaroni pasta.
- Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the shrimp and the cheese sauce.
- Creole Seasoning: Adds a flavorful blend of spices to the shrimp and sauce.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- Onion and Garlic: Aromatic essentials that add depth and flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to make the roux, which thickens the sauce.
- Evaporated Milk and Whole Milk: Create a creamy and rich sauce.
- Broth (or Milk): Adds extra flavor and helps adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- Optional Seasonings: Cayenne pepper for a touch of heat and additional Creole seasoning for extra flavor.
- Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Cheddar Cheese: A blend of cheeses for the ultimate cheesy flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
How to Make Shrimp Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they just start to change color. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onions until softened. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, whole milk, and broth until smooth. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Add more Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper if desired. Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and most of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and arrange the shrimp on top. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and top with chopped parsley, bacon, and breadcrumbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Shred your own cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Warm the milk: Warming the milk before adding it to the sauce helps create a smoother and quicker-thickening sauce.
How to Serve Shrimp Mac and Cheese
- Weeknight dinner: This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
- Potluck or gathering: It’s also a great dish to bring to a potluck or gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as shells, rotini, or cavatappi.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply add it to the mac and cheese during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can add more Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Shrimp Mac and Cheese. I hope you enjoy it!
Print
Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Tender shrimp and pasta are combined in a rich cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package (230g) macaroni
- 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 teaspoons (4-8g) Creole seasoning
- 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, minced (about 1/2 cup)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons (23g) all-purpose flour
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 3/4 cup (180ml) broth or milk
- 1/2–1 teaspoon (2-4g) Creole seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup (113g) grated mozzarella
- 1/2 cup (45g) grated Parmesan
- 1 cup (235g) grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a plate or bowl—season with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning. Toss to coat evenly, and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Add butter to a deep cast iron skillet. As soon as it melts and quits bubbling, add the shrimp. Cook until they start changing color, but don’t cook all the way through because they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Next, add the garlic and onions. Sauté until the onion wilts, about 3 minutes.
- Make Roux: Then whisk in the flour. Continue whisking until the butter and onion mixture completely absorbs the flour, then continue cooking for about a minute.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Gradually add the evaporated milk, followed by milk and broth. Simmer for 3-5 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly. Add more Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper if desired. Finally, stir in the cheeses and continue stirring until they melt for an evenly combined and smooth sauce. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Combine and Bake: Add the macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until completely coated. Transfer your mac and cheese mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Arrange the shrimp on top. Bake at 375℉ (190℃) for 10-15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and top with chopped parsley, bacon, and breadcrumbs, if desired.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Never cook your pasta past al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Shredded Cheese: Shred the cheese yourself for best melting results.
- Warm Milk: Measure out the milk before starting the recipe to allow it to warm up a bit, which will help create a smoother cheese sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 700kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *