Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese

Name: Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese, a decadent twist on a classic favorite. Tender shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter blend perfectly with rich cheese sauce and al dente pasta, creating an irresistible dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests. This recipe is sure to be a hit at dinner parties and family gatherings alike.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-23T08:09:55.313Z

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and flavorful cheese sauce
Perfect balance of garlic and shrimp
Easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner or special occasion

      

The Perfect Comfort Food Upgrade

Mac and cheese holds a special place in many hearts, representing warmth and nostalgia. By infusing this timeless dish with succulent shrimp and a hint of garlic, we transform a simple comfort food into a gourmet experience. The result is a delightful fusion that is both satisfying and indulgent, perfect for elevating any dinner table.

Creatively combining different textures and flavors, this Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese serves as a celebration of culinary possibility. The creamy cheese sauce melds beautifully with the tender shrimp, while the al dente pasta adds a satisfying chew. It’s this balance of tastes and textures that elevates the dish, making it more than just another mac and cheese recipe.

An Easy Yet Impressive Dish

This recipe is designed to impress with minimal effort. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal for your family, Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese strikes the right balance between ease and elegance. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can serve a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.

The preparation process is straightforward, just requiring basic cooking skills. As you sauté the shrimp and create a creamy cheese sauce, the enticing aromas will fill your kitchen, instantly making it feel like a special occasion. Your guests may think you’ve slaved away in the kitchen when, in reality, you’ve created a sophisticated meal in under an hour.

Customizing Your Mac and Cheese

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences. For instance, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the nutrient content and add extra color and flavor to the dish.

If you're looking for a spicier kick, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the garlic shrimp mixture. Alternatively, for a milder flavor, skip the spice altogether. The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese is that it can easily be tailored to your liking, making it a great option for family dinners or intimate gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and add cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

Cook the Shrimp

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and then add the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until shrimp is pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. Fold in the shrimp. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!

Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. A light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the dish and offer a refreshing contrast. Adding a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls will complete the experience, ensuring that every delightful mouthful is savored.

For an added touch of elegance, consider garnishing your mac and cheese with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds layers of flavor, inviting diners to dig in.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess of the cheese sauce if needed.

This dish can also be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Nutritional Information

While Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese is undoubtedly indulgent, it can also offer some nutritional benefits. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, and when paired with the vitamins found in cheese and milk, you have a dish that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing.

However, like many comfort foods, moderation is key. If you’re watching your calorie intake or dietary limits, consider portion control or serving it alongside plenty of vegetables. That way, you can enjoy this delicious meal without compromising your health goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What cheese can I substitute?

You can use any melting cheese like gouda or fontina.