Creamy, rich, and brimming with flavor—this Shrimp Mac & Cheese Bake takes traditional comfort food up a gourmet notch. Each forkful delivers velvety cheese sauce wrapped around tender elbow macaroni, crowned with juicy, paprika-seasoned shrimp that roast to golden perfection in the oven. The crust? A golden herb-Parmesan layer adds savory crunch and aromatic depth.
What sets this dish apart is the interplay between lush cheese and the seafood’s subtle brininess, lifted by hints of garlic and onion. The shrimp are not merely mixed in—they’re showcased atop the mac, creating an eye-catching finish and a burst of flavor in every bite. Garnished with fresh parsley, this bake becomes an effortless crowd-pleaser, ideal for special dinners or a cozy weekend treat.
For lovers of both seafood and indulgent pasta dishes, this recipe offers the best of both worlds—with customizable elements that let wellness ingredients shine, like turmeric or whole-grain pasta, without compromising on taste.
INGREDIENTS:
- For the Shrimp Topping:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the Mac & Cheese Base:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Herb-Parmesan Crust:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp dried Italian herbs or chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup whole grain breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS:
🍤 1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit while you prep the mac and cheese—this allows the spices to absorb for maximum flavor.
🍝 2. Cook the Macaroni: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (around 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
🧀 3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour to form a roux; whisk for 2–3 minutes until golden. Slowly pour in warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes). Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted. Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
🧩 4. Combine & Layer: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and level the top. Arrange seasoned shrimp on top in a single layer.
🌿 5. Add the Crust: Mix the Parmesan, herbs, and optional breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the shrimp and macaroni for added texture and flavor.
🔥 6. Bake: Place dish in oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until shrimp are cooked and crust is golden. The cheese should bubble around the edges, and shrimp should lightly curl.
🌿 7. Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh parsley for color and serve warm.
Wellness Tips & Variations:
- Swap white pasta for whole wheat or lentil-based for added fiber and lower glycemic impact.
- Add ¼ tsp turmeric to the cheese sauce for anti-inflammatory benefits.
- For a dairy-light version, use part coconut milk or cashew cream.
- A touch of chili flakes will spice things up for heat-lovers.
This bake balances indulgence with customizable healthy twists. Let me know if you’d like a version infused with cultural flavors or a deeper wellness boost!