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Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese Casserole on marble table

Classic Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese Casserole

This decadent Classic Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese Casserole features tender elbow macaroni, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy three-cheese sauce, all topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. It's the ultimate comfort food for a hearty meal.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 700 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Pan
  • Baking Dish
  • Bowls
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese freshly shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper

For the Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  • Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook in a large pan over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes per side until pink, then remove and set aside.
  • Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low, then stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and cream cheese until melted. Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, then pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  • In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  • Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese to ensure a smoother sauce. The recommended oven temperature is 375°F (190°C), as this was not specified in the original instructions. Do not overcook the shrimp in the pan, as they will cook further in the oven.