Easy Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese
This Easy Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and topped with perfectly baked shrimp and crispy panko for a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cavatappi pasta
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups half and half
- 12 ounces shredded Gruyère cheese
- 12 ounces shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 pounds medium raw shrimp (51-60 count), peeled and deveined with tails off
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes a light golden color. This will create a roux that helps thicken the cheese sauce.
Step 4: Add the Half and Half
- Gradually whisk in the half and half, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded Gruyère and white cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
- In a separate skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 7: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Shrimp
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cavatappi pasta, cheese sauce, and cooked shrimp. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
Step 8: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the shrimp mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Baking Dish
- Box grater
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother cheese sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is best to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy.