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cajun shrimp and crab mac and cheese
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cajun shrimp and crab mac and cheese

Cajun Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese is a decadent twist on a classic comfort food, packed with tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce with a spicy Cajun kick. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers and makes an unforgettable meal for holidays, special occasions, or when you want to treat yourself to something truly indulgent.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: dinner
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz shrimp peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped
  • 8 oz lump crab meat
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs optional, for topping
  • 1 tbsp melted butter optional, for topping
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with a little Cajun seasoning, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until just pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to remove any lumps.
  4. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth. Season with the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and crab meat to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. If using, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot.