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Cajun Surf & Turf Mac Bowl

This Cajun surf and turf mac bowl combines juicy shrimp, tender steak, creamy homemade mac and cheese, and colorful sautéed peppers. Packed with bold Cajun flavor and rich cheesy comfort, it makes a hearty dinner for four.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun-Inspired
Calories: 980
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Grilled corn on the cob, optional
  • Extra cheese sauce, optional, for drizzling
  • Chopped parsley, optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Saucepan
  • whisk
  • large skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until creamy. Fold in the cooked macaroni.
  3. Season the steak with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sear in a hot skillet for 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your preferred doneness. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  4. Season the shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil and butter in the same skillet and cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until pink and tender. Remove and set aside.
  5. Add the garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until tender-crisp.
  6. Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top with the sliced steak, Cajun shrimp, and sautéed peppers.
  7. Drizzle with extra cheese sauce if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with grilled corn on the cob for the ultimate surf and turf meal.

Notes

Cook the macaroni only until al dente so it stays tender without becoming mushy in the cheese sauce.
Whisk the milk into the roux gradually to help keep the cheese sauce smooth.
Cook the steak to your preferred doneness, then let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cook the shrimp only until pink and tender to avoid overcooking.
Sauté the peppers until tender-crisp so they retain some texture.
Extra cheese sauce, grilled corn, and chopped parsley are optional for serving.