By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on June 6, 2023 | Last Updated on September 19, 2023
Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food dish. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also very easy to prepare and makes for a great weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. So don’t wait, try this Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese for your next meal. You won’t regret it!
In this article, we’ll be discussing the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making this dish at home, as well as some tips and nutritional information. Let’s get started!
What is Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese?
Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese is a delicious dish from Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. which is a popular chain of seafood restaurants. This dish is made with elbow pasta, shrimp, butter, Cajun seasoning, onion, flour, milk, cheddar and Monterey jack cheese, salt, and pepper, and topped with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
The result is a creamy macaroni and cheese dish that has a bit of a kick from the Cajun seasoning as well as a crunchy topping.
It has a creamy texture from the cheese sauce, with just the right amount of kick from the Cajun seasoning.
The shrimp adds a nice seafood flavor to the dish while the onion adds a subtle sweetness. The Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs give it an irresistibly crunchy topping that makes it even more delicious.
How did I first get introduced to the Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese?
I first tried the Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese at one of their restaurants. I was immediately hooked on the flavor and texture, so I decided to try to recreate it at home.
After some trial and error, I eventually figured out how to make a delicious version that tastes just as good as (if not better than) the original.
How to make Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese?
Making Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese is really easy. All you need is a few ingredients & follow these step-by-step guidelines below:
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Ingredients
- Elbow pasta: This type of pasta is a classic for macaroni and cheese dishes.
- Butter: You’ll need four tablespoons of butter to help create the creamy sauce base.
- Shrimp: Medium shrimp are used here, peeled and deveined beforehand and cut into thirds.
- Cajun seasoning: This adds a delicious flavor to the dish.
- Onion: A small amount of onion adds a nice flavor and texture.
- Flour: This helps thicken the sauce while also giving it a nutty flavor.
- Milk: Either whole or 2% is fine for this recipe.
- Cheeses: Both cheddar and Monterey Jack add delicious flavor and creaminess to the recipe.
- Salt and pepper: As always, salt and pepper are necessary for taste.
- Parmesan cheese: This adds a nice amount of richness as well as a bit of crunchy texture when baked.
- Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs give the mac and cheese a nice crunchy topping.
- Parsley: This adds a bit of freshness to the dish.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
First, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2
Now, take a large pot and cook elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente, and drain.
Step 3
In a large skillet heat 2 sticks of butter on medium heat. Add shrimp, cajun seasoning and cook until shrimp is cooked through. Then, remove the shrimp from the skillet, and set them aside.
Step 4
Now, melt the remaining 2 sticks butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5
Then, add Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the saucepan and whisk over low heat until both cheeses are melted.
Step 6
Now, add flour to 1/2 glass of water. Whisk and stir constantly so that there is no lump. Then, add the flour mixture to the pan where you’ve melted cheese and mix thoroughly. It will make the sauce thick and heavy.
Step 7
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8
Now, it’s time to bake. Add cooked pasta to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over top and stir until evenly combined. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top followed by breadcrumbs and parsley.
Step 9
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Tips
– If you are not sure if your shrimp is cooked through, cut it into one to check.
– Feel free to try different cheeses for a new flavor profile.
– You can also add other ingredients, such as bacon or vegetables, for added flavor and texture.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Medium pot
- 1 Colander
- 1 cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked elbow pasta
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 4 sticks butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Onion (diced)
- 2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoon Chopped Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- First, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Now, take a large pot and cook elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente, and drain.
- In a large skillet heat 2 sticks of butter on medium heat. Add shrimp, cajun seasoning and cook until shrimp is cooked through. Then, remove the shrimp from the skillet, and set them aside.
- Now, melt the remaining 2 sticks butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Then, add Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the saucepan and whisk over low heat until both cheeses are melted.
- Now, add flour to 1/2 glass of water. Whisk and stir constantly so that there is no lump. Then, add the flour mixture to the pan where you've melted cheese and mix thoroughly. It will make the sauce thick and heavy.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Now, it's time to bake. Add cooked pasta to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over top and stir until evenly combined. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top followed by breadcrumbs and parsley.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrional Information
– Fat: 32g
– Carbohydrates: 57g
– Protein: 28g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 790mg
– Cholesterol: 109mg
What to serve with Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese?
The Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese pairs well with a variety of sides, including steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or coleslaw. Additionally, it can be served as a main dish alongside some garlic bread for a complete and delicious meal.
No matter how you decide to serve it, this creamy mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
How to store leftover Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese?
Leftover Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the mac and cheese in a baking dish with a few tablespoons of water or milk.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely eat the Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese as long as all ingredients are cooked to their recommended temperatures. In addition, it is crucial to make sure that any raw or undercooked ingredients (such as shrimp) are thoroughly prepared to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
It is always best to check with your healthcare provider before consuming any food during pregnancy.
FAQs
Is this a healthy dish?
This dish contains a moderate amount of calories, fat, and carbohydrates. It also provides some protein and dietary fiber which can help contribute to your balanced diet.
However, it is important to note that the cheeses used in this recipe are high in sodium so it should be eaten in moderation if you are looking for a healthy meal option.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container or bag. When you are ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through.
Wrapping Up
Bubba Gump Shrimp Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. It features succulent shrimp swimming in a rich cheese sauce over cooked pasta. With just a few simple steps and some pantry basics, you can have this delicious dinner on the table in no time!
Thank you for reading! We hope you found this guide helpful. For more recipes, cooking tips, and food inspiration, check out our other articles here!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
