If you’re in the mood for something ultra-comforting with a kick of bold Southern flavor, then this Cajun Shrimp & Crab Mac & Cheese is calling your name. Picture this: creamy, cheesy macaroni with a buttery Cajun-spiced crustacean twist. The shrimp are tender and juicy, the crab is sweet and succulent, and it all comes together in a luscious cheese sauce that’ll make you close your eyes with every bite. It’s decadent. It’s cozy. And trust me, it’s the kind of dish you’ll crave again before your plate’s even empty.
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Why You’ll Love Cajun Shrimp & Crab Mac & Cheese
This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why it earns a spot in your dinner rotation:
- Versatile: Whether it’s a cozy night in, a holiday side dish, or the star of your dinner table, this mac & cheese fits the moment. It’s got that wow-factor that works just as well at a potluck as it does on date night.
- Budget-Friendly: You don’t need a fancy seafood boil budget to enjoy rich, satisfying flavor. Use frozen shrimp and canned or imitation crab for a more affordable twist without sacrificing the magic.
- Quick and Easy: It might taste like something from a five-star restaurant, but the steps are simple and beginner-friendly. If you can cook pasta and stir a sauce, you’ve got this.
- Customizable: Want it spicier? Toss in extra Cajun seasoning. Prefer it creamier? Add a splash more milk or another handful of cheese. This recipe is your playground.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Rich, cheesy, and loaded with seafood—what’s not to love? It’s the dish everyone will be asking about and secretly hoping there’s more of.
Ingredients
Let’s break down the delicious components that make this dish the ultimate seafood comfort food:
Pasta:
Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta like shells or cavatappi will work beautifully.
Shrimp:
Peeled and deveined, cooked just until pink and juicy with a little Cajun heat.
Crab Meat:
Sweet and tender crab meat (lump, claw, or imitation) brings that extra layer of seafood richness.
Butter:
Used for both sautéing and building that creamy roux for the cheese sauce.
Garlic & Onion:
Adds a savory depth of flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the dish.
Flour:
Helps thicken the cheese sauce to velvety perfection.
Milk & Heavy Cream:
The duo that makes the sauce ultra-creamy and dreamy.
Cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan):
A trio of gooey, sharp, and nutty cheeses that melt into one rich and satisfying sauce.
Cajun Seasoning:
Brings that bold, zesty Southern flavor that makes this dish pop.
Breadcrumbs (optional):
Sprinkled on top for a crispy, golden finish if you choose to bake it.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Time to bring the heat and make this seafood mac & cheese magic happen:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Seafood:
In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until just pink, then gently fold in the crab. Set aside.
3. Make the Roux:
In the same pan, melt more butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for a minute or two until golden.
4. Build the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in Cajun seasoning.
5. Add the Cheese:
One handful at a time, stir in the cheeses until melted and velvety. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and seafood into the sauce. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
7. Optional Bake:
Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and Savor:
Dish it up warm, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approx. 550-650 (depending on ingredients used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp & Crab Mac & Cheese
This dish is decadent on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas to round out your meal:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Because cheesy carbs deserve even more carbs, right?
- Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted asparagus or green beans are perfect alongside.
- Lemon Wedges: A little squeeze of lemon over the top brightens every bite.
Additional Tips
- Seafood Options: Use fresh or frozen seafood—just make sure to drain well before adding.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix in smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the mac & cheese ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Spice Control: Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste—start small and build up.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use canned crab meat?
A1: Absolutely! Just drain it well and gently fold it into the sauce to avoid breaking it apart.
Q2: How do I make this dish spicier?
A2: Add extra Cajun seasoning, a dash of hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for more kick.
Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A3: Yes—use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Skip the breadcrumb topping or use gluten-free crumbs.
Q4: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A4: Yep! It’ll still be creamy, just a little lighter in texture.
Q5: What type of shrimp should I use?
A5: Medium or large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, work best. Tail-off is easier for eating.
Q6: Can I freeze this mac & cheese?
A6: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container. Reheat with added cream or milk to revive the texture.
Q7: How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
A7: Warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk stirred in.
Q8: Can I omit the crab or shrimp?
A8: Of course! You can use just one or the other, or substitute with cooked chicken or andouille sausage for a different twist.
Q9: What kind of cheese melts best for this dish?
A9: Sharp cheddar is a go-to, but mix in mozzarella for stretch and parmesan for depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible—it doesn’t melt as well.
Q10: Can I bake this mac & cheese instead of just stovetop?
A10: Definitely. Bake it for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a golden, crispy topping.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp & Crab Mac & Cheese is everything you want when you’re craving creamy, cheesy comfort—with a bold, flavorful twist. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or a special weekend treat, this dish delivers big time. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite way to do mac & cheese. Go ahead, dive in. You’ve earned it!
Print
Cajun Shrimp & Crab Mac & Cheese
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese is an indulgent, creamy twist on the classic dish. It’s packed with flavor from the Cajun shrimp, tender crab meat, and a blend of cheeses. The combination of sharp, mild, and creamy cheeses makes each bite irresistibly decadent. Perfect for a family meal or special occasion!
Ingredients
Cajun Shrimp:
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2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined (if frozen, thawed)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
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Pinch of salt
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Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Mac and Cheese:
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3 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
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2 lbs fresh crab legs, cooked OR 2 and 1/2 cups imitation crab meat, diced
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1/4 cup fresh or dried basil + more for topping
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1 cup whole milk
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2 – 2 and 2/3 cups evaporated milk
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1/2 – 1 teaspoon paprika, or to taste
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1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
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1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
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2 large eggs, beaten
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4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
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2 cups mild cheddar cheese, grated
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2 cups colby & monterey jack cheese, grated
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1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
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Cajun seasoning, for topping
Instructions
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For the Cajun Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until coated.
Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp and cook, stirring constantly, until they turn pink, about 4-6 minutes. Set aside. -
For the Pasta:
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente (follow package directions). Drain well and transfer to a large bowl. Mix in the Cajun shrimp, crab chunks, and basil. Set aside. -
For the Cheese/Milk Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk and evaporated milk. Add paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the beaten eggs and combine.
Set aside 1 cup sharp cheddar, ½ cup colby & Monterey Jack, and ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining cheese to the milk mixture and stir to combine. -
Assembly of the Mac and Cheese:
Pour the cheese mixture into the macaroni and stir to combine.
Transfer to the prepared baking dish and top with the reserved cheeses. Sprinkle with more basil, paprika, salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning, if desired.
Bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden. Cover with foil around the 35-40 minute mark to prevent the cheese from touching the foil.
Remove from the oven and let sit for 25-30 minutes before serving.
Notes
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You can adjust the amount of paprika and cayenne depending on your preferred spice level.
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Let the dish rest before serving to allow it to set properly.