Succulent prawns marinated in a fragrant blend of seafood seasoning, garlic, and chilli flakes form the heart of this elevated Prawn Mac N Cheese. By incorporating a beef bouillon-infused pasta base and a velvety sauce thickened with sharp cheddar and Red Leicester, the dish achieves a depth of character that balances ocean-fresh sweetness with a satisfyingly savory edge.
As it bakes, the surface develops a golden, bubbling crust that gives way to a silky, spice-forward interior. The addition of cayenne pepper and black pepper provides a gentle, lingering warmth that cuts through the creaminess of the melted cheese, making for a substantial main course that feels intentional and well-balanced.
Serving this straight from the oven ensures the best contrast between the crisp, cheesy top layer and the tender pasta below. It works well as a cozy weekend dinner or a standout addition to a family spread, offering a refined twist on a classic comfort food staple that keeps the prawns plump and flavor-focused throughout the cooking process.
Read Full StoryIf you have a penchant for the combination of shellfish and melted cheese, you’ll find plenty of ways to incorporate these ingredients into your weeknight rotation. For those nights when you want something crispy, this garlic-infused seafood pizza offers a savory alternative to pasta, while a cheesy prawn omelette serves as a quick and protein-packed option for a satisfying breakfast or a light dinner.
Key Ingredients
- Prawns: These are marinated in seafood seasoning and garlic before being stirred into the cheesy pasta.
- Macaroni Pasta: This serves as the essential base for the dish, cooked in a seasoned bouillon water.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, classic base for the creamy cheese sauce.
- Leicester Cheese: Adds a vibrant color and mild, nutty depth to the final mac and cheese sauce.
- Beef Bouillon Cube: Used to season the pasta water and infuse the dish with savory depth.
- Milk: Blended with flour and butter to create the smooth, silky consistency of the sauce.
- Chilli Flakes: Introduces a subtle heat to the prawn marinade.
- Garlic: Provides an aromatic foundation for both the prawns and the creamy cheese sauce.
More Cheesy Seafood Comforts
- Try this stuffed prawn omelette if you appreciate a heavier hand with the cheese, as it provides a richer, creamier center than standard versions.
- This prawn-filled breakfast dish is an ideal follow-up to a decadent mac and cheese when you still want to keep the flavor profile consistent.
- For a different texture entirely, the traditional Adana stringy cheese börek brings a satisfying pastry element that complements any cheese-heavy menu.
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