Go Back
A baked shrimp mac and cheese casserole bubbling hot from the oven.

Classic Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese Casserole

Indulge in a comforting Classic Baked Shrimp Mac and Cheese Casserole, featuring tender macaroni, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz (about 3 cups) Elbow macaroni
Filling
  • 1 lb (≈ 450 g) Large shrimp, peeled & deveined, chopped
  • 4 Tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 4 Tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 3 cups Whole-milk dairy or low-fat milk
  • ½ cup Heavy cream optional
  • 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ cup Shrimp stock or seafood broth
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp Onion powder optional
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional
  • ¼ tsp Smoked paprika
  • Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Topping & Garnish
  • ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 Tbsp Olive oil for topping
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium skillet
  • Whisk
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Prep the Macaroni
  1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Toss the cooked macaroni with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped shrimp until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream (if using) until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth, then add shrimp stock, minced garlic, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Bake
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Gently fold the cooked macaroni and shrimp into the cheese sauce.
  3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  4. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Serve
  1. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can sauté the shrimp with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount of smoked paprika to your preference for a milder or more intense smoky flavor.