Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and full of Cajun kick, this Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese is a dish I reach for when I want comfort food with a spicy twist. The classic macaroni and cheese gets upgraded here with plump, juicy shrimp that are coated in bold Cajun seasoning, plus a golden crunchy topping that finishes it off just right. It is a showstopper for potlucks or weeknight dinners alike.

I first made this when my family begged for something a little more exciting than plain mac and cheese during a chilly weekend. As soon as I brought it to the table, everyone dove in, and now it is on constant dinner rotation whenever we need a bit of Southern flair.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: This shape is perfect for catching all that creamy cheese sauce Use high quality pasta for the best texture
• Large shrimp: Look for peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and choose fresh or frozen wild caught shrimp for extra flavor
• Olive oil: The oil helps the Cajun spices stick and gives the shrimp a beautiful sear Use extra virgin if possible
• Cajun seasoning: This classic Southern blend infuses the shrimp and breadcrumbs with a signature smoky spiciness Make sure to check for a salt content that suits your preference
• Smoked paprika: Adds a deep earthy note Spanish smoked paprika is best if available
• Cayenne pepper: Optional for those who love a little more fire Adjust to taste
• Salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the shrimp Use kosher salt if you have it
• Unsalted butter: Forms the base of the rich cheese sauce and gives that buttery crumb topping Go for real butter over margarine
• All purpose flour: Helps thicken the silky cheese sauce Choose unbleached flour for better texture
• Whole milk: Creates an extra creamy base The higher fat content keeps the sauce from curdling
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the sauce its robust bite Always shred your own cheese for the smoothest melt
• Monterey Jack cheese: Lends creaminess and a mild flavor Shred fresh for best results
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives unparalleled silkiness to the sauce Use full fat for richness
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Both ramp up the savory element in the sauce Make sure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor
• Black pepper: A must for gentle heat and balance
• Panko breadcrumbs: Deliver a ultra crisp golden topping Japanese style panko is ideal because it is extra airy
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a welcome touch of color Only garnish with fresh for best flavor

Instructions

Prepare Your Broiler:

Set your oven broiler to high This will create that golden crunchy topping at the end

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just shy of al dente You want the noodles to be a touch firm so they do not become mushy Drain the pasta well and set aside

Season and Sauté the Shrimp:

In a mixing bowl combine shrimp olive oil Cajun seasoning smoked paprika cayenne pepper and salt Toss until each shrimp is thoroughly coated Heat a large skillet over medium high heat Once hot add the shrimp in a single layer Cook for about two to three minutes per side You are looking for a deep pink color and lightly crisp edges Once cooked remove the shrimp to a plate Cover to keep warm

Make the Cheese Sauce:

Melt unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute Stir constantly to form a smooth roux without letting it darken Slowly add the whole milk to the roux while whisking non stop This keeps things lump free Cook while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon about four to five minutes

Melt in the Cheeses and Seasonings:

Reduce the heat to low Add the sharp cheddar Monterey Jack cream cheese garlic powder onion powder black pepper and a pinch of salt Stir well until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce turns glossy and smooth Taste and adjust seasonings

Combine Pasta Cheese Sauce and Shrimp:

Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce Ensure every piece gets coated in the cheesy goodness Reserve a few shrimp for topping then gently fold the rest of the cooked Cajun shrimp into the pasta mixture

Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:

In a small bowl mix together the panko breadcrumbs melted butter and Cajun seasoning Stir so the butter evenly moistens the breadcrumbs

Assemble and Broil:

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a broiler safe large skillet or casserole dish Level the surface then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top Place under the oven broiler for just one to two minutes Watch closely The breadcrumbs should turn golden brown and crisp but not burn

Garnish and Serve:

Scatter chopped fresh parsley and reserved shrimp on top Bring straight to the table and serve steaming hot

Save

The sharp cheddar has always been my secret weapon for this recipe It cuts through the richness and melds beautifully with the Cajun spices Once my niece declared it the best macaroni ever after her birthday party and the whole family has insisted on this version for celebrations since

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat place in a covered ovenproof dish at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit until hot or gently warm portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess Avoid overheating which can make the sauce separate

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of shrimp you can use diced chicken tender white fish or a plant based protein such as marinated tofu For a gluten free option select gluten free pasta and panko If you do not have Monterey Jack try mozzarella or Colby Jack Adjust the blend of cheeses to suit your taste and pantry

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese alongside a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for balance It is excellent paired with corn bread or as part of a Southern style buffet For special occasions I sometimes top with a drizzle of hot sauce at the table for extra zing

Save

This recipe brings a taste of Louisiana to your table with every creamy, spicy bite. Leftovers reheat well—if you have any!

Recipe Questions

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Control the heat by reducing or omitting cayenne pepper. For milder flavor, select a Cajun seasoning blend labeled as mild.

→ Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Swap shrimp with chicken, sausage, or even plant-based alternatives for a similar result with different flavors.

→ What type of cheese works best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provide a creamy texture and bold flavor, but you can also use gouda or pepper jack.

→ How do I keep the breadcrumb topping from burning?

Broil just 1–2 minutes and watch closely—remove once breadcrumbs turn golden and crisp to avoid burning.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, substitute the pasta and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Double-check all other packaging for allergens.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve alongside a fresh green salad, sautéed vegetables, or crisp white wine to complement the rich flavors.