Creole-Style Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese

This creamy, cheesy dish brings a spicy twist to a classic favorite with tender shrimp and bold Creole flavors. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress family and friends.

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TIME35 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) box elbow macaroni 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 12 ounces uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere's®) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups half-and-half 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 1 tablespoon Creole mustard

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite, about 8 minutes. While the pasta is cooking, melt a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the shrimp, sprinkle with Creole seasoning, and cook, stirring often, for about 4 minutes. Then add the garlic and keep cooking until the shrimp turn pink, which should take another couple of minutes. Turn off the heat and set the shrimp aside.

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Step 2

Once the pasta is done, drain it and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you make the cheese sauce. Put the empty pasta pot back on the stove and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and combined. Slowly pour in the half-and-half, heating it for around 3 minutes until it starts to thicken.

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Step 3

Next, stir in the cheeses and keep whisking until everything melts together nicely, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Add the mustard and let it cook for another couple of minutes before turning off the heat. Finally, stir the cooked macaroni and shrimp into the cheese sauce until everything is warmed through. Serve it up right away and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender.
- Stir the sauce constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with tender, flavorful shrimp, all seasoned with a touch of Creole spice. It’s comforting and rich, yet has a nice kick that keeps your taste buds interested. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Serving ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side is also great for soaking up extra sauce.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.