Creamy Mac with Crunchy SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp Topping

10 min Prep time
15 min Cook time
4 Servings
Easy level

Recipe Description

Store-bought mac and cheese is prepared with the addition of butternut squash and jazzed up with a crunchy popcorn shrimp topping for a variation on the classic kid-friendly dish. You can also build this meal out with grown-up variations and even healthier options to adapt to your family’s tastes and needs.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Prepare SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp according to package directions. Chop popcorn shrimp.
  2. Meanwhile, cook noodles of mac and cheese and butternut squash for 7 to 8 minutes or until pasta and squash are tender. Drain mixture and return to saucepan.
  3. Add butter, 1/4 cup milk and cheese powder mix, and stir until well combined and creamy, and butternut squash is mashed and smooth. If mixture is dry, add up to another ¼ cup of milk.
  4. To serve, top enough mac and cheese with Cheddar and popcorn shrimp to suit your child’s taste.

For Adult-Friendly Builds

  • Variation: Top mac and cheese with extra popcorn shrimp.
  • Additions: Flavor recipe as desired with nacho, Greek or Italian spice blends. Consider adding a little crumbled feta or goat cheese. Garnish with toasted breadcrumbs and chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze juice over shrimp.
  • Substitution: Change up mild Cheddar with sharp (old) or smoked Cheddar.

For Optional Healthy Builds

  • Substitution: Use low-fat milk or cheeses if your family prefers. Vegetables: Gradually increase the amount of butternut squash to suit your child’s tastes, or substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes or finely chopped cauliflower or cauliflower rice.
  • Variation: You can try stirring additional popcorn shrimp into mac and cheese for more protein once your child is comfortable with the flavors.
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