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Classic Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese

A creamy and flavorful mac and cheese featuring tender Cajun-seasoned shrimp. This comforting dish combines al dente macaroni with a rich, three-cheese sauce, topped with optional crispy panko breadcrumbs.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 850 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • bowl
  • Whisk
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

For the Cajun Shrimp:

  • 20-25 Fresh Shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper optional, for extra heat

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 1 lb Elbow Macaroni
  • 1/2 cup Butter
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 4 cups Whole Milk
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese grated
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

For the Topping (Optional):

  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp Melted Butter
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Main Instructions

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  • Toss shrimp with olive oil and Cajun seasonings. Cook in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until pink; remove and set aside.
  • Melt butter in the same skillet, then whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a light golden paste forms.
  • Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth, continuing to whisk for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack cheeses until completely melted and smooth.
  • Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Stir cooked macaroni and Cajun shrimp into the cheese sauce. Transfer to a buttered 9x13 inch baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, if using, and serve hot.

Notes

For an extra kick, don't skip the cayenne pepper in the shrimp seasoning. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper in the cheese sauce to your taste. If you prefer a less rich dish, you can omit the Gruyère or Monterey Jack and use more sharp cheddar.