Description
A garlicky, cheesy twist on comfort-food macaroni that combines shrimp with a rich cheddar-mozzarella sauce for a swift, delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the shrimp in 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted, and season with paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Add drained pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and warm through for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce. For best texture, shred your own cheese from blocks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American