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–+ servings
Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese

Creamy Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese for Ultimate Comfort

This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese recipe combines classic flavors with a zesty seafood twist, making it the ultimate comfort food.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Elbow Macaroni Can substitute with penne or cavatappi.
For the Seafood
  • 1 lb Fresh Crab Legs or Imitation Crab
  • 1 lb Shrimp Medium-sized, seasoned with Cajun spices.
For the Dairy
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Evaporated Milk
  • 8 cups Cheeses (Sharp Cheddar, Mild Cheddar, Colby & Monterey Jack Blend, Parmesan) A combination for melty goodness.
For Seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp Paprika Adjust to taste.
  • 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to spice tolerance.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust to match spice preference.
For Binding
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten.
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with any neutral cooking oil.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté seasoned shrimp in olive oil over medium heat for 4-6 minutes until pink and opaque. Set aside.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, paprika, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and beaten eggs until blended.
  5. Stir in most of the cheese blend into the milk mixture until incorporated. Mix with cooked macaroni, shrimp, crab, and fresh basil.
  6. Transfer to a buttered 9x13 baking dish, spreading evenly and topping with reserved cheese.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 45-55 minutes; remove foil halfway through to create a golden top.
  8. Let cool for 20-30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow the mac and cheese to cool for the best texture. Adjust spices to taste throughout the cooking process.

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