Get ready to indulge in a dish that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the vibrant flavors of the Southwest! Our Southwestern Shrimp Mac Cheese is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that brings together tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and a hint of taco seasoning that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Dive into this delicious fusion of comfort food and exotic flair, and discover why it’s destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined), 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp taco seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tbsp chopped green onions.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of taco seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Lower the heat to medium-low.
- Add the milk, sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot with the macaroni. Stir well to combine and melt the cheese, creating a creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the macaroni and cheese mixture, ensuring the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve your Southwestern Shrimp Mac Cheese hot, and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish with a Southwestern twist!
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they only need about 2-3 minutes per side. They should be pink and opaque when done. Overcooking can make them tough and chewy.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, add more milk or sour cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taco Seasoning: For a bolder flavor, consider adding more taco seasoning or even some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Baking Tips: Make sure to preheat your oven before baking to achieve that bubbly, golden cheese topping. Keep an eye on it while it bakes to prevent burning.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh crunch that complements the creamy mac and cheese beautifully.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.Enjoy your cooking experience, and savor every bite of this delightful Southwestern twist on a classic dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 250mg
