Cajun Shrimp Crab Mac (Printable Version)
Creamy pasta bake with shrimp, crab, and three cheeses, seasoned with bold Cajun spices for rich flavor.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Pasta
01 -
3 cups elbow macaroni
→ Seafood
02 -
2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
03 -
2 1/2 cups imitation crab meat, diced
→ Cheese
04 -
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
05 -
2 cups mild cheddar cheese, grated
06 -
2 cups colby and monterey jack cheese, grated
→ Dairy
07 -
1 cup whole milk
08 -
2 to 2 2/3 cups evaporated milk
→ Spices & Herbs
09 -
Cajun seasoning, to taste
10 -
Fresh or dried basil, to taste
11 -
Paprika, to taste
12 -
Cayenne pepper, to taste
13 -
Salt, to taste
14 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Others
15 -
Olive oil, for cooking
16 -
2 large eggs, beaten
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then cook until pink, approximately 4 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
03 -
Add cooked shrimp, diced imitation crab meat, and basil to the macaroni. Stir gently to combine.
04 -
In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and beaten eggs until fully blended. Stir in most of the grated cheeses until smooth.
05 -
Pour cheese sauce mixture over macaroni and seafood combination. Mix until evenly distributed. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with reserved cheese and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
06 -
Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until golden brown on top. Allow to cool for 25 to 30 minutes before serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For a creamier texture, use evaporated milk within the specified range depending on desired consistency.