Classic Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese
This rich and creamy Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese combines tender elbow macaroni with succulent shrimp, all bathed in a smoky, spicy cheese sauce. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, it's a comforting meal with a kick.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large bowl
- Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Small bowl
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) Elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
- ½ lb (225 g) Large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 3 Tbsp Unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp All‑purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) Whole milk
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (110 g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (20 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- ¼ tsp Cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside. In a large bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper; set aside.
Cooking
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through; remove shrimp and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and shrimp to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Sprinkle the buttered panko over the mac and cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
For extra spice, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also add some diced bell peppers or onions to the skillet with the shrimp for added flavor and vegetables.