Go Back
–+ servings
Cajun Seafood Mac Delight

Cajun Seafood Mac Delight: Creamy Comfort for Any Occasion

Experience the rich flavors of Cajun Seafood Mac Delight, a creamy blend of shrimp, crab, and cheese that brings comfort to any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 lbs Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute with any favorite pasta shape.
For the Seafood
  • 2 lbs Shrimp Deveined and peeled.
  • Fresh Crab Legs or Imitation Crab Meat Choose fresh for a luxurious touch or imitation for a budget-friendly option.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Essential for achieving creaminess.
  • 1 cup Evaporated Milk Adjust based on creaminess preference.
  • 2 Large Eggs Helps bind everything together.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Elevates the dish with bold flavors.
  • 1 tbsp Paprika Provides color and enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Use sparingly for a kick of heat.
  • Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Cheese
  • 2 cups Cheeses (Sharp Cheddar, Mild Cheddar, Colby & Monterey Jack, Parmesan) Blend for richness; hold back some for topping.
For Cooking
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Perfect for sautéing shrimp.
  • 2-3 tbsp Basil (Fresh/Dried) Fresh is ideal, dried can be used in smaller quantities.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • large bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Seafood Mac Delight
  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Cajun Seafood Mac Delight. Prepping everything will make the cooking process seamless.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 4-6 minutes until bright pink and opaque.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  4. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, and beaten eggs until smooth. Add spices and mix well.
  6. Stir in the blend of cheeses into the milk mixture until combined. Fold in the cooked macaroni, shrimp, crab, and basil.
  7. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and top with reserved cheeses and additional seasoning if desired.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 45-55 minutes. Remove foil after 35-40 minutes for a crispy top.
  9. Let the dish rest for 20-30 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use fresh seafood for the best flavor. Allow resting after baking to avoid a soupy result.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!