Ingredients
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparing Cajun Shrimp Mac & Cheese is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the drained macaroni and cooked shrimp to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
These steps will guide you in creating this incredible dish effortlessly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g