Description
Shrimp Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups (720ml) milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
For the Shrimp:
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Topping:
½ cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp melted butter
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
—
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes per side until slightly pink (they will finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Assemble:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Arrange the shrimp evenly on top of the mac and cheese.
5. Add the Topping:
Mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the top of the dish.
6. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin by cooking the pasta in well-salted water until just al dente; it will soften further in the oven. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry and season. Sear them in a hot skillet for just 1-2 minutes per side—they should be lightly pink but not fully cooked through. For the sauce, the key is a smooth roux: whisk the flour into the melted butter for a full minute to cook out the raw taste. Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat before stirring in the cheeses to prevent a grainy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This rich bake is a complete meal but pairs beautifully with simple sides to balance its richness. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or with steamed green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For a casual gathering, serve directly from the baking dish with crusty garlic bread on the side. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, cheesy flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta al dente. Sear seasoned shrimp briefly. Create a cheese sauce by making a roux (butter + flour), adding dairy, then melting in cheeses. Combine pasta and sauce in a dish, top with shrimp, and add a buttery panko-Parmesan topping. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but add them in the last 5 minutes of baking to just warm through, preventing them from becoming tough and rubbery.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the mac and cheese (without the topping and shrimp), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the shrimp and topping just before baking, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time.
What’s the best cheese substitute for a sharper flavor? Swap half the cheddar for Gruyère or add a few ounces of cream cheese to the sauce for extra tang and creaminess.
Why is my cheese sauce grainy? This often happens if the sauce is too hot when the cheese is added or if it’s overheated afterward. Always remove the saucepan from the heat before stirring in the shredded cheese.
Can I freeze leftovers? Freezing is not recommended, as the dairy-based sauce can separate and the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp before baking: They will finish in the oven, so a quick sear is sufficient.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese: These contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Shred cheese from a block for best results.
- Not seasoning the pasta water: Salting the boiling water is your first chance to build flavor in the pasta itself.
- Adding the topping too early: The panko topping should only be added right before baking to stay crisp.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Mac and Cheese Bake transforms a classic comfort food into an impressive, restaurant-quality dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a creamy, luxurious cheese sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and a delightfully crispy topping every time. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that masterfully combines simplicity with decadent flavor.