Cajun Shrimp Mac & Cheese
This Cajun Shrimp Mac & Cheese combines creamy cheeses with a kick of spice for a deliciously hearty meal.
Equipment
- large pot
- skillet
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni substitute with any pasta shape you prefer
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoon Butter can swap for olive oil for a dairy-free option
- 2 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour use gluten-free flour as a replacement if needed
- 2 cups Milk whole or 2% milk works best; almond milk can be a dairy-free alternative
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese substitute with a milder option if you like
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese may replace it with provolone or Monterey Jack
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be used if preferred
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder fresh onions are a good alternative
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika paprika or chili powder can be an option for a different spice profile
- Salt essential for seasoning; adjust to taste
- Pepper essential for seasoning; adjust to taste
For the Cajun Shrimp
- 1 lb Shrimp peeled and deveined; substitute with any seafood for a different flavor
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil can be replaced with unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning homemade seasoning is a great substitute
For Serving
- Fresh Parsley optional garnish
Instructions
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour to form a roux, then slowly add milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Stir in sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Gently fold the cooked pasta and prepared shrimp into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingCalories: 730kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 22gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 350mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 10mg
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