Shrimp Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on the classic comfort dish! Creamy cheese and tender shrimp come together with pasta for a delightful meal that warms the heart.
It’s like a hug in a bowl, and let’s be real, who could resist cheesy goodness with a seafood kick? I love serving it with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is a classic choice for mac and cheese, but you can swap it with other types of pasta like shells, penne, or rotini. They all hold the cheese sauce well!
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are perfect here, but you can use large shrimp if you prefer. If seafood isn’t your thing, try diced cooked chicken or even veggies like zucchini for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you want it extra cheesy, mix in Gouda or Monterey Jack. For a lower-fat option, you could use part-skim mozzarella but keep in mind the flavor will be milder.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they might not be as crispy. A sprinkle of crushed crackers also works in a pinch!
How Do You Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s important to get it just right. Here are steps to help you achieve that smooth, creamy texture:
- **Make a Roux:** Start by cooking the flour in butter. This helps thicken your sauce and keeps it from being grainy. Make sure to cook it for at least 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- **Add Milk Gradually:** Pour in the milk slowly while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce bubbles and thickens, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. Patience is key!
- **Melt the Cheese:** Remove from the heat before adding cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly. If the cheese is too hot, it can become stringy instead of creamy.
Following these tips will help you create a deliciously creamy sauce that perfectly coats your pasta and shrimp! Enjoy your cooking!
Shrimp Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Mac and Cheese recipe takes about 30 minutes in total, with 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for baking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for any time of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to help prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season them with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and the paprika. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and gently bubbles for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the Cheeses:
Take the sauce off the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until they are all melted and the sauce is smooth. Season it with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked macaroni and the shrimp into the cheese sauce, stirring until everything is well-coated and combined.
7. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the shrimp and mac mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.
8. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top. For extra crunch, you can dot a bit of melted butter over the breadcrumbs if you like.
9. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see bubbling cheese.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Before serving, garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Shrimp Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheeses?
If you don’t have sharp cheddar, you can use mild cheddar or a cheese blend. For mozzarella, consider using a low-moisture version. You can also mix in gouda or pepper jack for a twist in flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply add the topping and extend the baking time by a few minutes to ensure it is heated throughout.