Creamy Shrimp Cajun Mac
This Creamy Shrimp Cajun Mac is a quick, flavorful, and cheesy one-pot meal with a spicy Cajun kick and tender shrimp. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Equipment
- Large Pot or Deep Skillet
- Colander
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup diced bell pepper
- 0.5 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside. If you prefer, you can cook the pasta directly in the sauce later for even more flavor absorption.
Sauté the Shrimp
- In your large skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp, sprinkle with half of the Cajun seasoning, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside to avoid overcooking.
Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add the diced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant. This builds the flavorful base of your sauce.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine with the sautéed veggies. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the cream simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add Cheese and Pasta
- Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Then, add the cooked elbow macaroni back into the pan, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Finish with Shrimp and Garnish
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pot and gently fold them into the pasta. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the shrimp and let the flavors meld. Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- To avoid overcooking shrimp, remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Simmer the cream gently before adding cheese to thicken the sauce and prevent it from being runny.
- Stir pasta frequently when mixing with sauce to prevent clumping and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning gradually to control the spice level to your preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.