Cajun Mac and Cheese with Shrimp and White Wine Sauce

Mac and Cheese is one of my all time favorite dishes. There is something about warm pasta tossed in creamy cheesy goodness that makes my heart and my taste buds melt.   Over the years I have made different renditions of Mac and Cheese, but this by far is my favorite. I mean really, who doesn't love cheese wine and seafood?  You seriously  can't go wrong with this recipe.   

*Disclaimer: I tried to measure as I went along so I could give you an accurate recipe.  However, some measurements might be slightly off.  Feel free to make any changes and leave any suggestions or questions in the comment box.*

Ingredients

1 pound of Penne noodles

3 tablespoons of butter

3 tablespoons flour

½ cup white wine (I used Pinot Grigio)

1 ½ cup milk

2 cups of cooked shrimp. (more or less depending on you preference)  You can buy them already cooked or do them yourself.

4 cups of shredded cheese (I used 2 cups of sharp cheddar and 2 cups of Colby jack)

1 cup Parmesan cheese 

Fresh black pepper

1 minced garlic clove

1 teaspoon sea salt 

Creole seasoning (you can make your own or purchase it) Here is an easy recipe using spices you probably already have in your cabinets http://allrecipes.com/recipe/creole-seasoning-blend/

Directions

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees

Cook pasta according to package instructions.  Drain, season and then add to bowl. Season noodles with creole seasoning, fresh black pepper and sea salt to your liking. 

Add 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to the noodles.

O.k., now you are done with the easy part.  The next step is making your cheese sauce.  This will ensure that every noodle is covered in cheesy goodness. For this recipe I start with a roux.  A roux (pronounced "roo") is equal parts fat and flour used as thickening agent. Below are instructions for making a roux.  I have also added a video by Chef Ramsey to help you along the way.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlMtbX-0ABA

 Heat butter and garlic in separate sauce pan on medium heat.

Once the butter has melted completely add flour and stir.

Add wine and whisk until there no longer lumps in your mixture.

Slowly add milk until the roux becomes creamy. If the roux is runny, you have added to much liquid.  Lower heat and mix until it thickens. 

Add fresh pepper and cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Gradually add and stir cheese into the roux.

Once your cheese sauce is completed add it pasta and mix in shrimp. 

Stir until the shrimp and sauce are evenly distributed and then add to baking pan.

Combine bread crumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning and then sprinkle it on top of mac and cheese.

Bake for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Pour remaining (maybe not all of it)wine in a glass and make a toast! This meal is deserves to be celebrated!