Name: Spicy Cajun Shrimp Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1.5 tablespoons butter; 1 shallot, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 cups pipe rigate pasta; 1 cup milk; 0.25 cup whipping cream; Nonstick cooking spray; 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk; 1.5 cups cooked medium shrimp; 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 0.33 cup shredded Fontina cheese; 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay®); 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning; 0.5 cup panko bread crumbs; 0.5 teaspoon seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay®); 0.5 teaspoon Creole seasoning; 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with a Cajun twist! This creamy, decadent macaroni and cheese is elevated with succulent shrimp and a medley of bold spices, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Partially cooked in a pressure cooker for speed and convenience, then finished in the oven for a golden, bubbly crust, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Engage the 'Sauté' function on your multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®). Introduce the butter and allow it to melt. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic; sauté until their fragrance fills the air, approximately 1 minute. Deactivate the 'Sauté' function by pressing the 'Cancel' button and allow the cooker to cool down.

02

Step

Introduce the pasta, ensuring it is thoroughly coated with the aromatic shallot-butter sauce. Gently pour in the milk and whipping cream. Secure the lid, ensuring it is locked in place. Select 'High Pressure' mode, adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines; set the timer for 10 minutes. Allow the pressure to build for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

03

Step

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, employ the quick-release method to vent any remaining pressure. Unlock and carefully remove the lid.

04

Step

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly coat an 8x8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.

05

Step

Introduce the evaporated milk, cooked shrimp, mozzarella, Parmesan, Fontina cheeses, seafood seasoning, and Creole seasoning to the pasta mixture. Gently fold until all ingredients are harmoniously combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish.

06

Step

In a separate bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, seafood seasoning, and Creole seasoning. Drizzle with melted butter and toss to ensure even distribution. Sprinkle this delectable crumb topping evenly over the casserole dish.

07

Step

Bake in the preheated oven until the casserole is bubbling with delight, approximately 5 minutes. Engage the broiler and broil until the topping achieves a beautiful golden-brown hue, approximately 2 to 4 minutes. Keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.