Description
Shrimp Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
1 lb shrimp
(peeled and deveined)
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley
(for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
Serve: Plate the mac and cheese, top with the cooked shrimp, and garnish with fresh parsley.
A rich and creamy dish with perfectly seared shrimp on top for added flavor!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof Shrimp Mac and Cheese. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the macaroni. While it cooks, pat your shrimp dry with a paper towel—this is key for a good sear. Season them generously. In a separate saucepan, start your cheese sauce on medium-low heat. Slowly add the shredded cheese to the warm cream and milk mixture, stirring constantly until fully melted before adding more. This prevents a grainy sauce. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the pot, then cover to keep warm while you quickly sear the shrimp in a hot skillet. The entire process should take about 20 minutes of active cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, or with steamed broccoli or asparagus. For a casual gathering, serve directly from the skillet at the table. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the plated dish just before eating can brighten all the flavors wonderfully.
How-to Summary
To summarize: boil pasta, create a creamy cheese sauce, combine, then quickly pan-sear seasoned shrimp to top the dish. The result is a decadent, restaurant-quality meal made easily at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but add them at the very end just to warm through. Using raw shrimp and searing them yourself provides superior flavor and texture.
What other cheeses work well? For a more complex flavor, substitute half the cheddar with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a bit of Parmesan.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Prepare the mac and cheese (without shrimp), pour into a baking dish, cool, and refrigerate. Before serving, reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, then cook the fresh shrimp and add on top.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and thick. A tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with the milk can help thicken it.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess, as microwaving can make the shrimp rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough and rubbery—they cook in just 2-3 minutes per side. Adding cheese to a sauce that is too hot or boiling, which can cause it to separate and become oily. Always simmer gently. Not salting the pasta water sufficiently, as this is your primary chance to season the pasta itself. Finally, do not rinse the cooked pasta; the starch helps the cheese sauce adhere.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Mac and Cheese recipe elevates a classic comfort food into a special, satisfying meal. By mastering a simple creamy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, you can create an impressive dish that is both luxurious and approachable. It’s perfect for a weeknight treat or for entertaining guests with minimal fuss. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite.