Creamy Cajun Shrimp Macaroni Bake
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Macaroni Bake is packed with bold spices, tender shrimp, and gooey cheese for an irresistible comfort meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Veggies
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Cream and Cheese
- In the same skillet or a mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream. Add half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese starts to melt and the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the shrimp and veggies. Toss everything together gently to evenly coat the pasta and shrimp with the creamy cheese sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the macaroni mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Baking Dish
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Notes
- Prepare the bake a day ahead by completing through Step 4, then refrigerate before adding cheese topping and baking.
- Substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or firm white fish if desired.
- To increase spiciness, add extra cayenne or chopped jalapeños during sautéing.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.