Macaroni and Cheese with Creole Shrimp

A creamy and cheesy dish gets a flavorful twist with spicy Creole shrimp, making it perfect for a comforting dinner with a bit of a kick. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your family or friends.

Smart Cooking Tips

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and firm.
Stir the cheese sauce constantly to keep it smooth and creamy.

Ingredients 0/8

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 12 ounces uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere's®) 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups half-and-half 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon Creole mustard

Why You'll Keep Making This

This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with spicy, flavorful shrimp for a perfect balance. It’s comforting and rich, with a little kick from the Creole seasoning that makes every bite exciting. It’s great for a family dinner or a special gathering.

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until it’s tender but still has a little bite, about 8 minutes. While the pasta is cooking, melt a tablespoon of butter in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in the shrimp and sprinkle with Creole seasoning. Cook, stirring often, for about 4 minutes, then add the garlic and cook until the shrimp turn pink, around 2 more minutes. Turn off the heat and set the shrimp aside.

Step 2

Once the macaroni is done, drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set it aside for now. Put the empty pasta pot back on the stove and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook it for about 2 minutes, whisking until it’s smooth. Slowly pour in the half-and-half and let it heat up for a few minutes.

Step 3

Whisk in the cheeses until they melt into a creamy sauce, which should take around 5 minutes. Stir in the mustard and cook for another couple of minutes before turning off the heat. Finally, add the macaroni and shrimp to the sauce, give everything a good stir until it’s warmed through, and serve right away.

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By Daniel Wilson

Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.

How To Plate This Dish

Serve with a simple green salad to add freshness and crunch. A side of steamed vegetables or garlic bread also pairs well. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley or green onions on top.

How To Keep It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.