Mexican Cheese Macaroni with Shrimp is a delicious fusion dish that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with the bold, flavorful tastes of Mexican cuisine. The shrimp adds a touch of elegance and richness, while the Mexican spices and cheese create a savory, satisfying dish. Here’s a simple recipe to make this flavorful Mexican Cheese Macaroni with Shrimp:
Ingredients:
For the Macaroni and Cheese:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterrey Jack, and/or Oaxaca cheese)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a thick paste).
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese (both the Mexican cheese blend and the cream cheese if using). Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Cook the shrimp:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with cumin, chili powder, paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
4. Combine the macaroni and shrimp:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
5. Garnish and serve:
- Transfer the macaroni and shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with a side of Mexican street corn (Elote) or a fresh guacamole and chips for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
- You can also pair it with a simple green salad or Mexican rice for added texture.
Tips:
- Spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp or the cheese sauce.
- Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with other Mexican cheeses like Queso Fresco or Cotija to add different textures and flavors.
- Make it ahead: You can make the macaroni and cheese sauce in advance, refrigerate it, and then add the shrimp right before serving.
This Mexican Cheese Macaroni with Shrimp is a delicious twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, with bold Mexican flavors and a creamy, indulgent texture that will surely satisfy your taste buds!