This New Orleans Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! It blends the classic mac and cheese with a little Cajun flair for a unique twist.
I love how this dish is perfect for gatherings. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and disappears fast! Plus, who can resist that golden, bubbly top? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can use any pasta you have on hand! Cavatappi or fusilli work great as well. Just be sure to cook until al dente, so it holds up in the bake.
Shrimp: Large shrimp add a nice touch, but you could swap them with chicken or sausage for a different flavor. Tofu is a great plant-based option if you prefer no meat.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix brings the New Orleans vibe! If you can’t find it, mix equal parts paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a homemade version.
Cheese: For those with cheese preferences, feel free to substitute cheddar with Colby Jack or even pepper jack for some heat. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor for a vegan version!
Panko Breadcrumbs: They add crunch! If you don’t have them, crushed crackers or even additional shredded cheese can work as a topping.
How Do You Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Getting a creamy cheese sauce is key to this baked mac and cheese. Follow these steps to prevent lumps:
- Start with a roux: After melting the butter, whisk in the flour until it’s smooth and lightly golden. This helps thicken the sauce.
- Gradually add milk and cream: Pour it in slowly while whisking constantly. This keeps everything combined without clumping.
- Cook until thick: Keep whisking! You want the sauce to coat the back of a spoon without being too runny.
- Remove from heat before adding cheese: This helps the cheese melt smoothly without becoming grainy.
Follow these tips and you’ll have a velvety cheese sauce every time!
New Orleans Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni or similar pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For Flavor:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping:
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious New Orleans-style baked mac and cheese will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish. With a little patience, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish that’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a large baking dish to prevent sticking, then set it aside. This will make serving a breeze!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not hard). Drain your pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1/2 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, then sauté them until they’re pink and cooked through—about 2 minutes per side. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until it turns a light golden color. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook this mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and the remaining Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper. Then, add in the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni to your cheese sauce and mix well to ensure every piece of pasta is covered in that delicious, cheesy goodness.
7. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Pour half of the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked shrimp over this layer. Top it off with the remaining mac and cheese, and then place the rest of the shrimp evenly on top. If you like, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs for a nice crunchy topping!
8. Bake It Up:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top has turned a beautiful golden brown and is bubbly. This will create that delicious crust we all love!
9. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives it a chance to set up a bit so it’s easier to scoop onto plates.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh chives or parsley to add a pop of color and serve hot! Enjoy your delicious New Orleans Baked Mac and Cheese, filled with creamy goodness and a hint of spice.
This comforting dish combines creamy mac and cheese with flavorful Cajun shrimp, delivering a delicious taste of New Orleans in every cheesy, baked bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. A quick method is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese in advance! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Gruyère or Gouda. For a vegan option, try cashew cheese or a store-bought dairy-free cheese blend!