*Shrimp And Macaroni
Creamy shrimp and macaroni baked with cheese and bread crumbs, offering rich flavors perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to the instructions on the box.
- Make a white sauce by melting butter, adding flour and salt, then slowly stirring in the milk.
- Layer cooked macaroni, shrimp, and pieces of cheese in a casserole dish, then pour the white sauce over each layer.
- Repeat the layering until the casserole is filled.
- Top with bread crumbs and dot with butter for added flavor.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the white sauce. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape works well. For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. If you prefer a different protein, cooked chicken can be used in place of shrimp, or try adding some crab for a seafood twist.
Serving Suggestions
This shrimp and macaroni casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread for extra flavor. For a variation, serve with a side of Crispy Tuna Balls for a delightful seafood experience or enjoy it as part of a larger seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover shrimp and macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or in a baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Shrimp And Macaroni contains roughly 816 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 563mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh shrimp! Just ensure they are cooked and peeled before layering them in the casserole. Fresh shrimp will add a richer flavor and a firmer texture to the dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this shrimp and macaroni dish gluten-free, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free for the topping.
How can I make this dish more cheesy?
For a cheesier casserole, try using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère. You can also mix some shredded cheese directly into the white sauce before layering or sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey finish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).