This creamy, cheesy dish gets a flavorful upgrade with spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp that adds just the right amount of kick. It’s a comforting meal that's perfect for satisfying your cravings with a little extra zest.
Start by turning on your pressure cooker to the sauté setting. Melt the butter, then toss in the shallot and garlic, cooking until they’re fragrant—about a minute or so. Hit cancel and let the pot cool down a bit. Next, add the pasta and stir it around to coat with that buttery shallot mixture. Pour in the milk and cream, then seal the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. It might take a little while for the pressure to build up.
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release to let out any remaining steam. Open the lid and preheat your oven to 350°F. Give an 8x8-inch casserole dish a quick spray with cooking spray to keep things from sticking.
Stir in the evaporated milk, cooked shrimp, cheeses, and both the seafood and Creole seasonings into the pasta mixture until everything is well combined. Pour it all into your prepared casserole dish. For the topping, mix the panko with the same seasonings and melted butter, then spread it evenly over the casserole.
Pop it in the oven until it’s bubbly, about 5 minutes. Finally, switch your oven to broil and watch the top until it turns a beautiful golden brown—this should take just a few minutes. Enjoy!
- Use medium or large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; add them near the end to keep them tender.
- Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from sticking or becoming grainy.
This dish combines creamy, cheesy comfort food with a bold, spicy kick. The shrimp adds a fresh, savory touch that balances the richness perfectly. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd.
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness to the meal. A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast also pairs well, helping to soak up the creamy sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cheese sauce and shrimp can change.
