If you crave the creamy comfort of mac and cheese but want to spice things up with a Southern kick, this Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new go-to dish. It combines tender shrimp seasoned with zesty Creole spices and a rich blend of cheeses poured over perfectly cooked macaroni, baked until bubbly and golden. Every bite is a delightful celebration of smooth, cheesy goodness with just the right hint of heat, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe plays a vital role in layering flavors and textures, from the spicy-sweet shrimp to the rich cheese sauce that coats every noodle. Having these essentials on hand ensures your dish will be both flavorful and perfectly balanced.
- Macaroni (8 ounces): The classic pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined for quick cooking and easy eating, bringing a fresh, oceanic taste.
- Creole seasoning (1-2 teaspoons): Adds that signature spicy, smoky flavor traditional to Creole cooking.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Used to sauté and create the roux base, enriching the sauce.
- Onion (1 small, minced): Provides sweetness and aromatic depth to the sauce.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant, savory boost enhancing every element.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the cheese sauce into a luscious, velvety texture.
- Evaporated milk (12 ounces): Gives richness without overwhelming heaviness.
- Whole milk (1 cup) and broth (¾ cup): Together create the creamy, flavorful liquid base.
- Cayenne pepper and additional Creole seasoning (optional): Customize the heat level to your liking.
- Mozzarella, Parmesan, and sharp cheddar cheeses: A trio that melts together for gooey, tangy, and cheesy perfection.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors throughout.
How to Make Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy, so it can hold up well during baking. Once cooked, drain and set aside so your noodles are ready to absorb all the creamy goodness coming next.
Step 2: Season Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, toss your peeled shrimp in salt, pepper, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of Creole seasoning. This step is key—it coats the shrimp in vibrant flavors that will infuse every bite with that unmistakable Creole character you want from this recipe.
Step 3: Cook Shrimp
In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the bubbling stops, add the seasoned shrimp and cook just until they begin to turn pink—about 2 minutes. Don’t overcook here because the shrimp will finish cooking in the oven, keeping them tender and juicy. Remove the shrimp and set aside to rest.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the minced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions soften and become translucent, about 3 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base that complements both the sharpness of cheese and spice of the shrimp.
Step 5: Make Roux
Sprinkle the flour into your onion and butter mixture, whisking constantly. This combination thickens your sauce and creates that smooth, velvety texture essential for mac and cheese. Let it cook for about a minute until the flour is fully absorbed and fragrant but not browned.
Step 6: Make Cheese Sauce
Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk, then the whole milk and broth. Keep stirring as the sauce simmers gently until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Now’s the moment to add a little more Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper if you love extra kick. Finally, stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and half of the sharp cheddar until melted and perfectly combined for a rich cheese sauce that clings to every noodle.
Step 7: Combine and Bake
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is luxuriously coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese. Arrange the shrimp in an even layer on top. Pop it in the oven at 375℉ (190℃) and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and irresistible.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and consider topping your Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe with fresh parsley, crispy bacon bits, or even a sprinkle of crunchy breadcrumbs to add an extra layer of texture and flavor. Then dig in—the perfect creamy, spicy meal awaits!
How to Serve Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe elevates its presentation and adds lovely texture contrasts. Fresh chopped parsley brightens the dish visually and gives a fresh herbal note, while crumbled bacon brings a smoky crunch. Toasted breadcrumbs provide a delightful crisp topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a hearty main, but some light, fresh sides balance it perfectly. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to cut through the richness. For something more Southern-inspired, pair with flaky cornbread or pickled okra for a true Creole experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins for a fancy touch at your dinner party. Or turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers, filling them with reheated mac and cheese then broiling them for a golden crust. Another idea is layering it in a casserole with sautéed greens or incorporating it into a breakfast bake with eggs for a decadent brunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option for busy evenings.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When frozen, the flavors meld even more, but be aware the texture of the shrimp can slightly change after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 350℉ (175℃) until bubbling, or microwave in short bursts to maintain creaminess. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can bring back that luscious texture your taste buds crave.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture which can dilute the sauce.
What can I substitute if I don’t have evaporated milk?
Whole milk or half-and-half works fine as a substitute, though evaporated milk adds a bit more richness and creaminess that’s perfect for mac and cheese.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level is customizable. The Creole seasoning and cayenne add warmth, but you can adjust or omit these if you prefer a milder version.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the shrimp and consider adding cooked and seasoned vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What cheese combination works best?
The blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the perfect balance of gooey meltiness, sharpness, and umami depth making the Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe is a wonderful way to bring bold flavors and cozy comfort together in one dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to share with friends or family. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to that warm, cheesy, spicy magic again and again. So grab your ingredients, turn on your oven, and get ready to indulge in one of the most delicious twists on classic mac and cheese you’ll ever taste!
Print
Shrimp Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and flavorful Shrimp Mac and Cheese recipe combining perfectly cooked shrimp with a creamy, cheesy sauce made from evaporated milk, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This dish is baked to golden perfection, offering a comforting blend of seafood and classic mac and cheese flavors with a subtle Creole spice kick.
Ingredients
Macaroni
- 1 (8-ounce) package (230g) macaroni
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 teaspoons (4-8g) Creole seasoning
Cheese 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
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Season Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a plate or bowl. Season evenly with salt, pepper, and 1-2 teaspoons of Creole seasoning. Toss well to coat the shrimp thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat butter in a deep cast iron skillet until melted and no longer bubbling. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook just until they begin to change color, about 1-2 minutes per side, avoiding fully cooking them as they will finish in the oven. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their aroma.
- Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour into the butter, garlic, and onion mixture. Continue whisking until the flour is fully absorbed and cook for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in the evaporated milk, then the whole milk and broth, whisking continuously. Simmer the mixture for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the optional Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper if using. Add the grated mozzarella, Parmesan, and half of the sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until all cheeses melt completely into a smooth sauce. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and seasonings accordingly.
- Combine and Bake: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly. Transfer this mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded sharp cheddar over the top and arrange the partially cooked shrimp evenly on the surface. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped parsley, crumbled bacon, and breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy shrimp mac and cheese.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp on the stovetop, as they will continue cooking in the oven during baking.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Feel free to add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Adjust Creole seasoning and cayenne to your spice preference for mild or more heat.
- This dish can be prepared ahead up to the baking stage and refrigerated, then baked before serving.
