Three Cheese Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese
Try this Three Cheese Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Three Cheese Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- nonstick cooking spray
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 12 ounce package frozen popcorn shrimp (i used seapak)
- 1/3 up onion finely diced
- 2 1/2 cups milk (i used 2%)
- 8 ounces white cheddar cheese shredded
- 4 ounces gruyere cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives for garnish
- Carbohydrate 60.5622944860009 g
- Cholesterol 115.433314953333 mg
- Fat 38.2188479894581 g
- Fiber 2.61724815258878 g
- Protein 34.8737088991646 g
- Saturated Fat 23.3941927751531 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (241g)
- Sodium 606.89445372777 mg
- Sugar 57.9450463334122 g
- Trans Fat 2.40671494647458 g
- Calories 730 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook shrimp according to package directions and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 3 quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water to al dente, according to directions on package. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, melt butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add onion and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until tender.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the milk and cook, whisking constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
- Remove from heat.
- Add the cheeses, mustard, salt, and pepper, and whisk until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and add half of the cooked shrimp.
- Stir gently to combine and pour into prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Top with remaining shrimp and bake another 5 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve.
Three Cheese Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to prepare delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a constant juggling act. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the ever-present demand for a quick, yet wholesome dinner. This Three Cheese Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese recipe has become my go-to solution, a comforting classic elevated with a delightful seafood twist. It’s a dish that pleases the entire family, even the pickiest eaters, and requires minimal prep time. The creamy, cheesy sauce, combined with the succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta, makes it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It’s a dish that's as quick to prepare as it is rewarding to savor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – a blend of Gouda and Gruyere would add a wonderful nutty flavor, or perhaps a touch of Parmesan for a sharper bite. If you're not a fan of shrimp, substitute with cooked chicken, sausage, or even vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a vegetarian option. The fundamental principles remain the same: a luscious cheese sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta. The shrimp adds a delightful protein boost and a touch of the sea, a welcome change from the everyday.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is also a fantastic way to incorporate a healthy dose of protein and calcium into your family’s diet. The shrimp is packed with protein, essential for growth and repair, while the cheese provides a good source of calcium, crucial for strong bones. The macaroni itself is a source of complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy throughout the day. It’s a complete meal in one dish – a true lifesaver for busy families and a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious can indeed coexist.
Beyond the Recipe: This recipe isn't just about the food; it’s about the memories created while sharing it. I envision my family gathered around the table, the warm glow of the kitchen lights reflecting in their happy faces. The aroma of the baked mac and cheese fills the air, a comforting reminder of home and togetherness. It's about slowing down in the midst of a busy week and appreciating the simple pleasure of a shared meal, a moment of connection amidst the chaos.
This recipe has become more than just a dish; it's a testament to the power of simple, delicious food to bring people together and create lasting memories. It's a reminder that even on the busiest of weeknights, we can prioritize the things that truly matter: family, food, and the simple joys of life.
So, try this recipe, and let it become your own family's cherished weeknight staple. Adjust it to your tastes, share it with loved ones, and let the deliciousness unfold. And who knows, it might just become your family’s favorite too.
