This shrimp mac and cheese mixes creamy cheese with tender shrimp for a fun twist on a classic dish. It’s rich, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want shrimp swimming in cheesy pasta? I love making this for dinner, and it always makes me feel cozy and happy. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using elbow macaroni for this dish, but cavatappi is fantastic too. If you want a whole grain option, try whole wheat or brown rice pasta. It holds up well in the cheese sauce!
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen works just as well. Just remember to thaw it properly. If shellfish isn’t your thing, you can substitute with cooked chicken or even a mix of veggies for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. If you want something different, you could use gouda for a smokier taste or fontina for extra creaminess. Just mix and match based on your cheese preferences!
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a nice crunch. If you’re out, regular breadcrumbs will work too. To make it gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs, or skip the topping altogether.
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about the roux and the way you add ingredients. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- First, melt your butter and whisk in the flour. Cook it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This gives it a nice foundation.
- Next, when adding milk, do it slowly while whisking. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
- Keep whisking until the mixture bubbles and thickens. Be patient—it takes about 5–7 minutes.
- Finally, off the heat, stir in your cheese until melted and smooth. Don’t rush this step!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy sauce in no time!
How to Make Shrimp Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil or butter for cooking shrimp
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Shrimp Mac and Cheese recipe requires about 30 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp and cheese sauce.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a skillet, heat a little olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Season them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika for added flavor. Once cooked, remove from the heat and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook it while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color (this is the roux). Gradually add the milk, whisking continually to avoid lumps. Keep whisking for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened and is bubbling slightly.
5. Add the Cheeses:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it’s all melted and creamy. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to mix everything together! Stir in the drained pasta and cooked shrimp into the cheese sauce, making sure everything is well combined.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the cheesy pasta and shrimp mixture into the greased baking dish or skillet.
8. Add the Breadcrumb Topping:
Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and combine it with the panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your mac and cheese to create a crunchy topping.
9. Bake:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesy mix is bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. Let it cool for a few minutes, then scoop and enjoy your creamy, cheesy shrimp mac and cheese!
This comforting dish is sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy!
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 quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheddar Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can use gouda or fontina for a creamier cheese sauce. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try using aged white cheddar. Just keep the cheese combination to 2-3 cups total for the best texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature before baking as instructed.