Cajun Steak & Shrimp Mac Bowls

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Steak & Shrimp

• 1 pound (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Mac & Cheese

• 12 ounces (340 g) elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the steak with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the shrimp with the remaining 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes, or until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet.
5. Add the remaining olive oil and cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds.
7. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute.
8. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
9. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
10. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
11. Divide the mac and cheese among serving bowls and top with the Cajun steak and shrimp.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Roasted broccoli or asparagus
• Caesar salad
• Corn on the cob
• Coleslaw

Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
• Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left on the heat too long.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the mac and cheese creamy.