If you are searching for a comfort food that brings together creamy, cheesy pasta and tender, garlicky shrimp in perfect harmony, this Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It combines the rich, velvety cheese sauce with the bright, aromatic punch of garlic and succulent prawns to create a luxurious dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a special weeknight dinner, this recipe balances simplicity and indulgence effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a crucial role. They build layers of flavor and texture that make this dish utterly irresistible, from the buttery roux to the melty cheeses and the crumbly topping that adds a delightful crunch.
- 500 g peeled shrimp/prawns: Fresh or defrosted, these are the star protein, offering sweetness and a satisfying bite.
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Essential for that robust, aromatic undercurrent that enhances every element.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp and garlic to develop flavor without heaviness.
- 50 g unsalted butter, divided: Used in two stages for richness and to craft the perfect creamy sauce base.
- 3 tbsp plain flour: The thickening agent that gives the sauce its luscious texture.
- 2 cups warmed milk: Warming the milk helps the sauce come together smoothly without lumps.
- 2.5 cups hot tap water: This helps cook the macaroni perfectly in the sauce, making cleanup easier and the texture creamier.
- 250 g elbow macaroni, uncooked: Classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheesy sauce lovingly.
- 1.5 cups freshly grated cheese (Cheddar, Gruyere, or other): A melty, flavorful cheese blend is key to that addictive cheesiness.
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated: Adds stretch and gooeyness to the creamy mix.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: Adds just a hint of heat and depth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor gently and evenly in the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder: A subtle secret ingredient that gives the cheese sauce an extra layer of complexity.
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs: For a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan: Mixed with breadcrumbs for an irresistible crispy crust.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the breadcrumb topping crisp up beautifully under the broiler.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broiler and Topping
Start by preheating your broiler or grill on high to get it ready for the final golden crust. While it heats, mix together the panko breadcrumbs with the grated parmesan and olive oil. This topping will add a delightful crunch that balances the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter in a sturdy, deep skillet over high heat. Add the shrimp and season lightly with pepper. Cook for about a minute, then toss in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute. You want the shrimp to change color but not be fully cooked because they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a bowl and reduce the heat to medium.
Step 3: Make the Roux and Sauce
In the same pan, melt the remaining butter, then whisk in the flour. Cooking this mixture for a minute helps get rid of the raw flour taste and sets the stage for a silky sauce. Slowly pour in the warmed milk, whisking constantly until smooth and lump-free. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder, then add the hot tap water. This technique allows the macaroni to cook directly in the sauce, soaking up all those rich flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Add the uncooked macaroni to the hot liquid and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often. The pasta should be just shy of fully cooked; it will finish cooking later under the broiler. Remove the pan from heat once the macaroni is almost tender.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses and Shrimp
Immediately stir in the freshly grated Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy. Fold the sautéed shrimp back into the mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. At this point, the sauce should be thick, luscious, and slightly saucy, as it will continue to thicken as it bakes.
Step 6: Add the Crumb Topping and Broil
Sprinkle the panko and parmesan crumb mixture evenly over the top. Place the skillet or baking dish under the hot broiler for 2 to 3 minutes or until the topping turns golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it because it can burn quickly!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve Immediately
For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like. Serve the Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe straight away, while everything is warm, creamy, and irresistibly gooey.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A little sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives brings a lovely herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. For an extra kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can elevate the garlicky shrimp flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish is a hearty star, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables adds balance. Consider something light and refreshing, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus, to complement the creamy mac and cheese without weighing down the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with the breadcrumb crust for a fancy presentation. You can also turn it into comforting stuffed bell peppers or even layered in a casserole to feed a crowd with minimal fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so you might want to loosen it with a splash of milk when reheating.
Freezing
This Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe freezes well in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly after freezing, so consider adding fresh shrimp when reheating for the best taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of milk to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to ensure even warming. To recover the crunchy topping, sprinkle fresh breadcrumbs and briefly broil after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well as long as it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess water from thinning out your sauce.
What cheeses are best for the mac and cheese sauce?
Sharp Cheddar for flavor, Gruyere for nuttiness, and mozzarella for meltiness make a fantastic combination. Feel free to experiment with your favorites for different flavor profiles.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the plain flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta and panko breadcrumbs to keep the dish safe without sacrificing texture or taste.
Can I prepare this dish without using a broiler?
If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until the breadcrumb topping is golden, which usually takes around 10 minutes.
How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?
Simply halve the ingredients and use a smaller pan. The cooking times remain mostly the same, but keep an eye on the pasta’s doneness to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and approachable, perfect for impressing family or friends without stress. The blend of garlicky prawns, creamy cheeses, and crispy topping creates a comforting experience you’ll revisit again and again. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to elevate mac and cheese night.
Print
Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese combines succulent prawns sautéed with garlic and a rich, cheesy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Topped with a crunchy golden breadcrumb crust, this comforting dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 500 g / 1 lb peeled shrimp/prawns
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
Cheese Sauce
- 50 g / 3.5 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 tbsp / 30 g plain/all-purpose flour
- 2 cups / 500 ml milk, preferably warmed
- 2.5 cups hot tap water
- 1.5 cups (150 g) cheese (Cheddar, Gruyere, or other), freshly grated
- 3/4 cup (75 g) mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
Pasta and Topping
- 250 g / 8 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked (2.5 cups)
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Broiler/Grill: Set your broiler or grill to high to prepare for browning the breadcrumb topping later.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Mix thoroughly to coat the crumbs for a crispy topping.
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large deep skillet or heatproof pot over high heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with pepper, and cook for 1 minute. Add finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until shrimp changes color but remains slightly undercooked. Remove shrimp to a bowl and reduce heat to medium.
- Make Roux: Melt the remaining 3.5 tbsp butter in the same pan. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a roux which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the warmed milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, and mustard powder, then add the 2.5 cups of hot tap water. Heat the mixture until it’s hot and beginning to thicken.
- Cook Macaroni: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the sauce. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring regularly, until macaroni is almost tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Remove from heat.
- Add Cheese and Shrimp: Stir in the grated Cheddar (or Gruyere) and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Fold in the cooked shrimp. Taste and adjust salt as needed. The sauce should remain saucy as it will thicken further under the broiler.
- Top with Breadcrumbs and Broil: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese. Place the skillet or pot under the hot broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot and bubbly.
Notes
- Use peeled shrimp/prawns for easy cooking and eating.
- Warming the milk before adding helps prevent lumps and speeds cooking.
- Cheese choice can be varied; Cheddar and Gruyere provide great flavor and meltability.
- Keep a close eye under the broiler as breadcrumbs can burn quickly.
- The sauce will thicken further as it cools, so serving immediately ensures perfect creaminess.
