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–+ servings
Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese

Indulge in Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese Experience Bliss

This Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese combines seafood with creamy cheese, transforming mealtime into an adventure.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun, Seafood
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni or substitute with penne or cavatappi
For the Seafood
  • 1 lb Fresh Crab Legs or Imitation Crab choose based on preference
  • 1 lb Large Shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Evaporated Milk adjust for creaminess
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (Sharp and Mild) mix varieties for depth
  • 1 cup Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese fresh grated recommended
For Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper adjust for heat
  • 1 tsp Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper to taste
Binding Ingredients
  • 2 large Large Eggs
For Cooking
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil can substitute with butter

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by gathering all ingredients for the Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, typically 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and sauté for about 4-6 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk and evaporated milk. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  5. Gradually mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheeses until smooth. Whisk in the large eggs to bind the flavors together.
  6. In the bowl with cooked macaroni, fold in sautéed shrimp, crab meat, and fresh basil. Pour in cheese sauce and stir until everything is coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  8. Sprinkle reserved cheese on top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  9. Let the dish rest for 20-30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, do not overcrowd the shrimp while cooking. Allow time for the dish to rest for better flavor and texture.

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