Name: Mac and Cheese with Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces dried elbow macaroni; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups half & half or whole milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated); 1 ½ cups shredded smoked gouda cheese (freshly grated); 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 pounds raw shrimp (cleaned and tails removed); 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

This Mac and Cheese with Shrimp recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets tender, juicy shrimp in this rich and satisfying dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you want something indulgent without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together two comfort food favorites—mac and cheese and shrimp—for a decadent yet easy-to-make meal. The sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and cream cheese create a velvety sauce, while smoked paprika and garlic powder add layers of flavor. Cooking the shrimp right in the cheese sauce keeps everything simple and minimizes cleanup. Whether you serve it as a main or a hearty side, this recipe delivers every time.

Mac and Cheese with Shrimp

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 ounces dried elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups half & half or whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1 ½ cups shredded smoked gouda cheese, freshly grated
4 ounces cream cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 pounds raw shrimp, cleaned and tails removed
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions

Shred the cheddar and gouda cheeses. Set out the cream cheese to soften.
Bring a large pot (6-quart) of heavily salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 6–9 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
In another pot (4–6 quart), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 2–3 minutes until golden, forming a roux.
Slowly whisk in the half & half until smooth. Add the cream cheese, cheddar, and gouda, stirring until completely melted.
Season with salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Lower the heat to prevent boiling.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Stir in the raw shrimp and cook for 4–5 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through. If the sauce is too thick, stir in up to ½ cup of reserved pasta water for a creamier consistency.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Seafood Mix: Try a mix of shrimp and crab meat or scallops.
Bread Crumb Topping: Transfer to a baking dish, top with seasoned breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Add Veggies: Mix in peas, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for a complete meal.
Cheese Swap: Use gruyère, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.

To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. You may add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Reheat gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

What’s the best pasta for mac and cheese?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells, cavatappi, or rotini work well and hold sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently. For best results, slightly undercook the shrimp to avoid overcooking when reheating.

Can I bake this mac and cheese?

Absolutely. After mixing in the shrimp, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.

How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?

Whisk the roux thoroughly, add warm milk slowly, and avoid boiling once the cheese is added to prevent curdling.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from cayenne and smoked paprika. Adjust or omit for a milder flavor.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and gives a better texture, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.

What if I don’t have gouda?

Substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gruyère for a similar creamy melt.

Can I use cooked shrimp?

Yes, just stir them in at the end to heat through and avoid overcooking.

What sides go well with shrimp mac and cheese?

Serve with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Mac and Cheese with Shrimp is the ultimate comfort dish with a luxurious twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, satisfying, and packed with tender shrimp, making it a standout option for both everyday meals and special occasions. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s a dish that’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.