If you are craving a soul-satisfying twist on a classic comfort food, this Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with the bold, smoky notes of Creole seasoning that bring every bite to life. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside, boasting a rich depth of flavor, luscious textures, and just the right amount of spice to keep things exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or impressing your friends at a gathering, this recipe delivers a sensational experience that’s truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list straightforward lets each component shine, building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish spectacular. These essentials combine creamy cheeses, aromatic spices, and fresh shrimp to create a vibrant and hearty meal.
- Macaroni (8-ounce package): Classic pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully and makes every forkful satisfying.
- Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Adds a delicate seafood sweetness and tender bite that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to balance and enhance natural flavors throughout the recipe.
- Creole seasoning (1-2 teaspoons plus optional extra): The star spice blend that delivers that unmistakable Louisiana kick and fragrant warmth.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Creates a rich base for cooking shrimp and building the roux for the sauce.
- Small onion (minced): Adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the skillet.
- Garlic cloves (2-3, minced): Infuses the dish with a savory aroma that elevates every element.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Essential for thickening the cheese sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
- Evaporated milk (12-ounce can): Brings creamy richness with a silky smooth texture that’s different than regular milk.
- Whole milk (1 cup) and broth or milk (¾ cup): Together they balance the sauce’s creaminess and add subtle layers of flavor.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who love an extra touch of heat to complement the Creole seasoning.
- Mozzarella (½ cup grated): Melts beautifully, contributing to the gooey texture.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Adds a sharp, nutty complexity that deepens the flavor profile.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup grated, divided): The hearty, classic cheese that forms the backbone of the creamy sauce and golden topping.
How to Make Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your macaroni just until al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta has enough bite to hold up in the baking process and soak up all the cheesy goodness without becoming mushy. Drain it carefully and set it aside while the magic happens with the shrimp and sauce.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Place your peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and 1-2 teaspoons of Creole seasoning. Toss the shrimp to coat every piece evenly. This step is crucial because it infuses the shrimp with that iconic Creole flavor that makes this dish truly shine.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In a deep cast iron skillet, melt the butter and then immediately add the shrimp. Cook them briefly just until they start to turn pink but are not completely cooked through, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Removing them while slightly underdone keeps their texture tender and juicy.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the minced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about three minutes, releasing sweet and savory notes that build a wonderful flavor base for the sauce.
Step 5: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onion mixture, whisking continuously. This step thickens the base and ensures your cheese sauce has a perfect, velvety texture. Cook the roux for about a minute so the flour loses its raw taste but does not brown.
Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, then add the whole milk and broth, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken for 3 to 5 minutes. Next, season with additional Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper if you want that extra zip. Finally, mix in the cheeses — mozzarella, Parmesan, and two-thirds of the cheddar — stirring until they melt into a smooth, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Step 7: Combine and Bake
Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every noodle is coated perfectly. Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish, sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese, and arrange the seasoned shrimp on top. Bake the dish at 375℉ (190℃) for 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top, making the whole kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and consider topping with chopped parsley, crispy bacon bits, or even some crunchy breadcrumbs for texture. Serve warm and watch how quickly this Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe becomes the star of your meal.
How to Serve Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten the dish’s rich flavors with fresh chopped parsley or chives, which add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that balance the creamy, cheesy sauce. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs to introduce crunch and smoky depth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that don’t compete but complement its boldness. Consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted seasonal vegetables to add freshness and balance. Cornbread or crusty garlic bread also make perfect companions to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of this Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe in small ramekins, topped with shrimp and a sprinkle of cheese and breadcrumbs. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or cozy date nights. Another great idea is to stuff bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes with the mac and cheese mixture before baking for a colorful and elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an excellent dish for next-day lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe in a suitable container for up to 1 month. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing if your mac and cheese has been baked with cheese toppings or breadcrumbs, as they may become soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated mac and cheese gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive that creamy texture. For baked portions, cover with foil and warm in a 350℉ (175℃) oven until heated through and bubbling again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess moisture from affecting the sauce.
Is there a substitute for evaporated milk?
Yes, whole milk combined with a little heavy cream can mimic the richness of evaporated milk. Just use about 1 cup of whole milk plus 2 tablespoons of cream in place of the evaporated milk.
How spicy is the Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe?
The heat level is moderate and customizable. The Creole seasoning provides warm, smoky spices without overwhelming heat, but you can add cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or reduce it for milder tastes.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can omit the shrimp and replace it with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
What’s the best cheese blend to use?
Sharp cheddar is the star for classic flavor and meltability, while mozzarella adds stretchiness and Parmesan gives a slightly nutty bite. Feel free to experiment with your favorites, but aim for a mix of flavors and textures for the perfect sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe is one of those soul-warming dishes you’ll want to make over and over again. The harmony between creamy cheese, spicy Creole notes, and tender shrimp creates a memorable meal that feels both comforting and exciting. Give it a try soon—you might just find you have a new go-to recipe that turns ordinary nights into special occasions.
Print
Shrimp Mac and Cheese with Creole Seasoning Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Mac and Cheese recipe combines succulent shrimp seasoned with Creole spices and a creamy three-cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni. Baked until golden and bubbly, it offers a deliciously rich and comforting meal with a subtle spicy kick from cayenne pepper and Creole seasoning.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (8-ounce) package (230g) macaroni
Shrimp
- 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 teaspoons (4-8g) Creole seasoning
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, minced (about ½ cup)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons (23g) all-purpose flour
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ¾ cup (180ml) broth or milk
- ½–1 teaspoon (2-4g) Creole seasoning (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon (1g) cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup (113g) grated mozzarella
- ½ cup (45g) grated Parmesan
- 1 cup (235g) grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional)
- Chopped parsley
- Bacon
- Breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to use later in the recipe.
- Season Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl or plate. Season evenly with salt, pepper, and 1-2 teaspoons of Creole seasoning. Toss to coat thoroughly, then set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat butter in a deep cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and stops bubbling, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook just until they start changing color but are not fully cooked through, as they will finish cooking during the baking step. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their aroma.
- Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour to the butter and onion mixture until fully absorbed. Continue cooking and whisk constantly for about one minute to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in evaporated milk, then whole milk and broth (or milk). Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it slightly thickens. Add additional Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper if you prefer extra spice. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and most of the sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until cheeses fully melt and the sauce is smooth and evenly combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Bake: Stir cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese on top, then arrange the partially cooked shrimp evenly over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and optionally garnish with chopped parsley, crispy bacon, and breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Partially cooking the shrimp before baking prevents them from becoming rubbery.
- Use a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan for even heat distribution while cooking shrimp and sauce.
- Feel free to substitute broth with milk if preferred for the sauce base.
- For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or Creole seasoning according to taste.
- Optional toppings like bacon and breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
