Spicy and Cheesy Creole Shrimp Mac and Cheese

4 stars
3.65 (19)
Spicy and Cheesy Creole Shrimp Mac and Cheese
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on October 04, 2023

Indulge in a spicy and cheesy twist on traditional mac and cheese with this Creole Shrimp Mac and Cheese recipe. Thick and creamy macaroni noodles are smothered in a blend of melted cheeses, cajun spices, and succulent shrimp, creating a dish that is bursting with flavor. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, this recipe will leave you craving for more. Get ready to experience a delightful fusion of Creole and American culinary traditions!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the shrimp and cajun seasoning to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, approximately 3-5 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni and shrimp to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined and heated through.
  7. Serve the Creole Shrimp Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
  8. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Creole cuisine originated in Louisiana, influenced by a blend of French, Spanish, African, and Native American cultures.
  • Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that dates back to the 14th century, with the first written recipe appearing in a cookbook in the 18th century.
  • Shrimp is a popular seafood ingredient in Creole and Cajun cooking.
  • Using a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses adds complexity and richness to the mac and cheese sauce.