THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Southern-Style Shrimp and Macaroni Cheese
This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender shrimp with classic macaroni for a comforting Southern-inspired meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Southern-Style Shrimp and Macaroni Cheese
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the elbow macaroni and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 8 minutes. While the pasta cooks, melt a tablespoon of butter in a big skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle on some Creole seasoning, and keep stirring for about 4 minutes. Then, throw in the garlic and cook until the shrimp turns pink, which should take another couple of minutes. Once done, turn off the heat.
02
Step 2
Drain the macaroni and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop it from cooking further, then set it aside. Take the same pot you cooked the pasta in and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk it all together until it’s smooth and bubbly, about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the half-and-half and let it warm through for around 3 minutes.
03
Step 3
Next, whisk in the cheeses until everything melts into a creamy sauce—this will take about 5 minutes. Add the mustard and let it cook for another couple of minutes before turning off the heat. Finally, stir in the cooked macaroni and shrimp until everything is heated through. Serve it up right away and enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with tender, flavorful shrimp for a comforting meal. The southern-style spices add a nice kick without overpowering the rich cheese sauce. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.
How to serve
Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to add some brightness to the plate. Cornbread or garlic bread also pairs well and can help soak up the cheesy sauce. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the southern flavors nicely.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid freezing as the texture of the shrimp and cheese sauce may change.
