Description

This Cajun Shrimp & Crab Mac & Cheese is a bold and flavorful twist on the classic mac and cheese. With succulent shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a creamy, spicy cheese sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your seafood cravings while delivering the perfect comfort food experience.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

– 1 lb elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta

For the Shrimp and Crab:

– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1/2 lb lump crab meat

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

– 1 tsp paprika

– 1/2 tsp garlic powder

– 1/2 tsp onion powder

– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

– 3 tbsp unsalted butter

– 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

– 2 1/2 cups whole milk

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 tsp Dijon mustard

– 1/2 tsp garlic powder

– Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the crab meat and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

4. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly.

5. Gradually add the milk, whisking to remove any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes until it thickens.

6. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, whisking until melted and smooth.

7. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir to combine.

8. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and crab to the sauce, mixing until well coated.

9. Serve hot, garnished with extra Cajun seasoning or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

– If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

– You can use other types of pasta such as penne or shells if you prefer.

– This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550 kcal
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 1100mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 160mg