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.