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
- 1/2 (18-ounce) package SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp
- 1 (7.25-oz) box mac and cheese mix
- 1 cup finely diced butternut squash
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
- 1/2 cup milk (approx.), divided
- 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
- Prepare SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp according to package directions. Chop popcorn shrimp.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.