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A serving of Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese in a bowl, showing a creamy texture with visible shrimp and spices.

Classic Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese

This Classic Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese features tender pasta, succulent shrimp, and a rich, spicy cheese sauce. It's a comforting dish with a kick, perfect for a hearty meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish (if skillet not oven-safe)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning blend
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 cups whole milk
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 0.5 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tsp hot sauce e.g., Tabasco
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs Panko preferred
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil for breadcrumbs
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Nutrition (Estimated per serving - based on 6 servings)

  • 550-650 Calories
  • 30-40 g Fat
  • 15-20 g Saturated Fat
  • 150-200 mg Cholesterol
  • 700-900 mg Sodium

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning; set aside to marinate.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper; set aside.

Cooking the Shrimp & Sauce

  • In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque; remove shrimp and set aside.
  • Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, constantly stirring, to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, pepper jack, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Assembly and Baking

  • Add the cooked macaroni and cooked shrimp to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is well combined and coated.
  • Transfer the mixture to a baking dish if your skillet is not oven-safe. Sprinkle the oiled breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Classic Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese!

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can substitute other types of cheese like smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.