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Firecracker Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese

Firecracker Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese That Sparks Joy

This Firecracker Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese combines creamy indulgence with a spicy kick, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Raw shrimp, peeled & deveined Remove tails for easy eating.
  • 1 cup Texas Pete hot sauce Adjust according to your heat preference.
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Can substitute with regular breadcrumbs.
  • 1 tablespoon Crushed red pepper Omit if heat isn’t desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used instead.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Adjust based on personal tolerance.
For the Macaroni and Cheese
  • 1 pound Uncooked pasta (cavatappi recommended) Any pasta can be used.
  • 1 cup Cold milk (low-fat recommended) Dairy-free alternatives like almond milk work too.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Can be omitted for a thinner sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Can substitute with margarine.
  • 3/4 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (low-fat recommended) Monterey Jack is an alternative.
  • 2 pieces Green onions, chopped Optional, for garnish.

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Marinate the shrimp in Texas Pete hot sauce for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture with panko, crushed red pepper, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet.
  4. Dredge the marinated shrimp in the breadcrumb mixture and place on the baking sheet.
  5. Bake the shrimp for about 15 minutes until pink and crispy.
  6. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  7. Make the cheese sauce by whisking cornstarch and milk, heating until combined, then stirring in butter and cheese.
  8. Combine the cheese sauce with the drained pasta and top with crispy shrimp and green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate shrimp longer for enhanced flavor. Store leftover dish in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

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