Shrimp Macaroni Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Shrimp Macaroni Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting essence of macaroni and cheese with the succulent flavors of shrimp. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how this dish has roots in coastal communities where seafood is abundant. The combination of tender pasta, creamy cheese, and juicy shrimp creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent.

People love Shrimp Macaroni Casserole not only for its rich taste and creamy texture but also for its convenience. It’s a one-dish meal that can be whipped up quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The versatility of this casserole allows for endless variations, whether you prefer a hint of spice or a touch of garlic. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients.

Preparing the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. You can also use butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
3. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly. You can chop them into smaller pieces if you like, but I usually leave them whole for a nice presentation.

Mixing the Casserole Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sautéed shrimp, and the following ingredients: shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, and diced bell pepper.
2. Sprinkle in the paprika, and add salt and pepper to taste. I like to give it a good mix at this point to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and cheesy, with the shrimp and veggies evenly spread throughout.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step, as you want the casserole to cook evenly.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
3. Pour the macaroni and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with your spatula.
4. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This will create a delicious, crispy topping for your casserole.
5. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give it a lovely crunch when baked.

Baking the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. I like to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
2. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

1. When serving, I like to garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional chopped green onions for a pop of color.
2. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.
3. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up

   Conclusion:

   In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Shrimp Macaroni Casserole recipe, I can confidently say that this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the shrimp for chicken or even a medley of vegetables for a vegetarian twist. For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce to the mix. Serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty garlic bread can really round out the meal and make it feel special. I encourage you to give this Shrimp Macaroni Casserole a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking! Print
   

   Shrimp Macaroni Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

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   • Author: Clara
   • Total Time: 45 minutes
   • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

   Print Recipe

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   Description

   This creamy Shrimp and Cheddar Macaroni Casserole features tender shrimp, cheesy elbow macaroni, and colorful veggies, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

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   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
   • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
   • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
   • 1 cup milk
   • 1 cup sour cream
   • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
   • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
   • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1 teaspoon onion powder
   • 1 teaspoon paprika
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
   • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

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   Instructions

   1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (7-8 minutes). Stir occasionally.
   3. Drain and rinse the macaroni under cold water. Set aside.
   4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
   5. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.
   6. Remove from skillet and set aside to cool.
   7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sautéed shrimp, cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, mayonnaise, green onions, and bell pepper.
   8. Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
   9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   10. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   11. Pour the macaroni and shrimp mixture into the dish, spreading evenly.
   12. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
   13. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
   14. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

   Notes

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or additional green onions before serving.
   • Pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

   • Prep Time: 15 minutes
   • Cook Time: 30 minutes