If you’re on the hunt for a thrilling twist on a classic comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Mac. It’s the perfect marriage of rich, velvety cheese sauce with a smoky, spicy kick from chipotle peppers, paired with succulent shrimp and tender elbow macaroni. This dish is bound to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or weekend treats alike. The balance of smoky heat, creamy texture, and fresh herbs makes it a standout recipe that’s both satisfying and exciting to the palate.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Bold flavors: The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky, spicy depth that elevates the traditional mac and cheese.
- Protein-packed: Juicy shrimp is a fantastic source of protein, making this dish hearty and fulfilling.
- Rich and creamy: The combination of heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats every piece of macaroni perfectly.
- Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh ingredients come together effortlessly for a quick, impressive meal.
- Fresh garnish: Chopped cilantro adds a bright, herbal finish that contrasts beautifully with the smoky sauce.
Ingredient List
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large pot – for boiling the macaroni
- Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking shrimp and making the sauce
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping onion, garlic, and chipotle peppers
Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Mac — Do This Next
Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Build the sauce base
Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add chipotle and cream
Mix in the chopped chipotle peppers and the remaining smoked paprika. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the cream simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Melt in the cheese
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the cream mixture, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Combine everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then fold in the drained macaroni. Stir gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy chipotle sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations by Season
- Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips for a pop of green and sweetness.
- Summer: Incorporate roasted corn kernels and diced tomatoes to brighten the dish.
- Fall: Stir in sautéed mushrooms and a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy twist.
- Winter: Swap cheddar for a sharp white cheddar or smoked gouda for a richer flavor.
Chef’s Rationale
- Choosing elbow macaroni: Its shape and size hold the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
- Shrimp prep: Peeled and deveined shrimp cook quickly and evenly, ensuring tender texture without overcooking.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: These add a smoky heat that complements the natural sweetness of shrimp and richness of cheese sauce.
- Heavy cream and cheddar cheese: This duo creates a sauce that’s indulgent yet balanced, with enough body to cling to pasta.
- Fresh cilantro garnish: It cuts through the richness, offering a refreshing herbal note.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
This Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Mac can be prepped ahead of time by cooking the pasta and shrimp separately, then storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Prepare the sauce just before serving to keep it creamy and fresh. When ready to serve, gently reheat the shrimp and pasta in the sauce over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. This approach saves time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ask & Learn
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
What if I don’t have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?
You can substitute with smoked paprika and a dash of cayenne pepper to mimic the smoky heat. However, the chipotle peppers bring a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate exactly.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess. Just be cautious with heat to avoid curdling.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! While elbow macaroni works best for its sauce-holding properties, penne, rotini, or shells would also pair well with this creamy chipotle shrimp mac.
Next Steps
Once you’ve mastered this Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Mac, experiment with other seafood varieties or spice levels. Maybe try swapping shrimp for chicken or adding in some roasted vegetables. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by adjusting heat or cheese types to suit your preferences. Keep exploring and enjoy the process of creating delicious meals that bring comfort and excitement to your table.
This Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Mac is your new go-to for a comforting yet vibrant dinner. The smoky chipotle flavor paired with succulent shrimp and creamy macaroni offers a unique spin on a classic favorite that’s sure to impress family and friends. Dive in and savor every delicious bite!
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Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Mac
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the chopped chipotle peppers and the remaining smoked paprika. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the cream simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the cream mixture, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then fold in the drained macaroni. Stir gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy chipotle sauce.
- Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Store cooked pasta and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Use frozen shrimp by thawing completely and drying before cooking for best results.
- Substitute chipotle peppers with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper if unavailable.
