🧀🍤 Shrimp Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta & Shrimp:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Juice of half a lemon (optional for brightness)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ cups milk (preferably whole milk)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds tanginess, optional)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Topping (for baking):

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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👨‍🍳 Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Squeeze lemon juice over them if using. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).

4. Add Cheese & Seasonings:
   Stir in mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Lower heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until fully melted and smooth.

5. Combine Pasta, Shrimp & Sauce:
   Stir the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp into the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.

6. Optional – Bake for Crunch:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13” baking dish. Mix panko, melted butter, and Parmesan, then sprinkle on top. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

7. Garnish & Serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

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🌟 Pro Tips:

• Use cooked lobster or crab instead of shrimp for variation.

• Add cayenne or hot sauce to spice it up.

• Use smoked gouda or gruyère for a deeper cheese flavor.