Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Craving comfort food without the guilt? This Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a deliciously healthy twist on a classic, perfect for a quick seafood meal. This recipe leans into the rich flavors often found in easy Caribbean shrimp dishes, bringing a touch of island flair to your dinner table. Instead of traditional pasta, we use cauliflower to create a creamy, cheesy base that’s lower in carbs and packed with nutrients. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a healthy shrimp dinner or a new way to enjoy poached shrimp, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite!

Recipe Overview

Ingredients for Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

• 6 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cups cauliflower florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander
• Medium saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese)

How to Make Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – Step-by-Step Instructions

This Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is perfect for a quick seafood meal! The poached shrimp recipe element ensures tender, flavorful shrimp every time. Follow these simple steps to create this delicious and easy Caribbean shrimp inspired dish.

Step 1: Cook the Cauliflower

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well in a colander.

Step 2: Poach the Shrimp

While the cauliflower is cooking, in the same pot (after draining the cauliflower water), add enough fresh water to cover the shrimp. Bring the water to a simmer (do not boil). Gently add the shrimp and poach until pink and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes depending on their size. Drain the shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked cauliflower and poached shrimp to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy shrimp dinner! This Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is best enjoyed fresh.

What to drink with Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Pair this delicious shrimp dish with our refreshing Keto Friendly Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe for the perfect keto meal combination.

Tips for Making Perfect Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

• Don’t overcook the cauliflower, it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they become rubbery.
• Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor..
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for added richness.
• Adjust the amount of heavy cream to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Variations of Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

For a spicier take on this poached shrimp recipe, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also substitute Monterey Jack or Gruyere cheese for the cheddar. For a true easy Caribbean shrimp flavor profile, add a teaspoon of jerk seasoning to the shrimp before poaching. This healthy shrimp dinner is highly adaptable!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed green beans.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended as the cauliflower and cheese sauce may change texture.

Nutritional Information

FAQ About Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Can I make Shrimp and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the cauliflower and cheese sauce separately ahead of time. Just combine everything and poach the shrimp right before serving for best results. Keeping fresh components guarantees this is the best quick seafood meal.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this poached shrimp recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to remove excess moisture.

Enjoy this reimagined mac and cheese! It’s a fantastic healthy shrimp dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Give it a try and let us know what you think of this easy Caribbean shrimp inspired recipe!

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