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Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe

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  • Author: Emily
  • 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

Units Scale
  • 1 (8-ounce) package (230g) macaroni
  • 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 teaspoons (4-8g) Creole seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, minced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 23 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
  • 1/21 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

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a plate or bowl—season with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning. Toss to coat evenly, and set aside.
  3. 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.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: Next, add the garlic and onions. Sauté until the onion wilts, about 3 minutes.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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