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Cajun Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese

Cajun Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese

DeShawn Mitchell
A hearty and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese, combining rich, creamy cheese with Cajun-seasoned shrimp and sweet crab meat. Perfect for special occasions or a delicious indulgence.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

Fresh Seafood Selection

  • 1 lb medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz fresh crab meat or high-quality imitation crab

Cheese Varieties

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Essential Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Pasta and Sauce Base

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk

Topping

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional
  • 2 tbsp melted butter for topping
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated optional, for topping

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cajun Shrimp

  • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.

Cook the Pasta

  • Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just shy of al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  • Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Combine Ingredients

  • Gently fold the cooked pasta, shrimp, and crab meat into the cheese sauce, ensuring even distribution.

Bake the Dish

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. For a golden crust, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.

Serve

  • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp and crab for the best flavor.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite.
  • Don't overcook the shrimp; they will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Consider adding a crunchy topping for texture.
  • Pair with a light salad or wine for a complete meal.
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