Description
A rich, creamy shrimp-topped mac and cheese with garlic-infused butter and aged cheddar. Quick and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
1 pound macaroni pasta
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 tablespoons butter (divided: 4 + 2)
6 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt remaining 4 tablespoons butter. Add cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Whisk in milk gradually until sauce reaches desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Return cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with cheese sauce until evenly coated. Stir in shrimp, ensuring they’re heated through. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Notes
Use elbow or small shell pasta for best sauce adhesion.
Aged cheddar is essential for bold flavor—avoid pre-shredded cheese which may not melt smoothly.
Adjust milk quantity based on sauce thickness preference.
Thaw frozen shrimp under cold water and pat dry before cooking.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1230mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg