The smell hits firstrich, buttery, with a little New Orleans heat tucked underneath. I grew up on mac and cheese baked to a golden crust, but this crawfish mac and cheese takes it someplace dreamy. Spicy, creamy, stick-to-your-ribs cozy. It’s the kind of dish that’s all over Southern kitchens these daysfor good reason.
This one stirs Louisiana charm right into your comfort bowl. Tender crawfish tails, sharp cheddar, and a Cajun kick tucked into creamy noodles. It bakes up bubbly and browned on top, like your grandma’s Sunday casserole, but ready in under an hour. No fancy ingredientsjust pantry staples and frozen crawfish straight from the store freezer. It’s rich but balanced, cheesy but lightened just enough to keep things weekday-friendly.
I first made it back in 2016 during Mardi Gras week with a bag of leftover crawfish tails and not much else. My oldest took one bite and said, “You need to write this down.” That night, I learned smoked paprika makes the cheese sing and a panko topping gives the perfect crunch. I’ve been testing cozy recipes like this on the blog for over a decade, and this one always finds its way back to the table.
Olivia Farnsworth
Crawfish Mac and Cheese The Ultimate Comfort Feast
This Crawfish Mac and Cheese is a creamy mac n cheese packed with the rich flavors of a classic crawfish boil, making it the ultimate comfort feast. Perfect for those craving a Southern-style creamy mac n cheese, it’s an ideal copycat recipe for recreating that authentic taste right at home. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on baked mac n cheese or searching for tasty copycat recipes, this dish delivers warm, cheesy satisfaction in every bite.
Bring the crawfish or seafood stock up to a boil in a large pot.
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling stock and cook until just tender, about 6 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the cooking liquid.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour, cooking it for a couple of minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
Warm the milk separately, then gradually add it to the roux while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Stir in 2 cups of the grated Colby cheese until fully melted.
Mix in the Creole seasoning.
Combine the cooked noodles and crawfish tails into the cheese sauce and stir everything together.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top, and bake in the oven uncovered for 15 minutes.
Switch the oven to broil and cook the top for an additional 3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Remove the skillet carefully and garnish with a pinch of fresh parsley.
Serve hot and enjoy your hearty crawfish mac and cheese.
Notes
If the cheese sauce thickens too much when adding Creole seasoning, thin it gently with some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Why You’ll Love Crawfish Mac and Cheese
This Crawfish Mac and Cheese perfectly blends comforting classic flavors with a touch of Southern flair. Here’s why it’s sure to become your new favorite:
Leftover Hero: It makes perfect use of leftover crawfish tails.
Southern Charm: A hearty Cajun twist gives this mac and cheese a delicious flavor boost.
Baked to Perfection: The golden, bubbly crust takes it from stovetop to casserole heaven.
Surprisingly Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with everyday ingredients and tools.
Key Ingredients and Tools
To create this creamy, flavorful Crawfish Mac and Cheese, gather these key ingredients and tools:
Crawfish Tails: If they’re frozen, defrost ahead of time for easy mixing.
Elbow Macaroni: The classic noodles hold the cheesy sauce perfectly.
Crawfish Stock: This forms the base for big, seafood-forward flavor. Seafood stock works too!
Colby Cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce and browns like a dream.
Creole Seasoning: Brings just the right amount of Cajun warmth.
10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: Essential for stovetop-to-oven cooking with even heat.
Reserved Pasta Water: Don’t skip setting some asideit’s your secret weapon for loosening the cheese sauce if it gets too thick.
How to Make Crawfish Mac and Cheese Step-by-Step
Making this delicious dish is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a perfect Crawfish Mac and Cheese:
Boil Noodles: Cook elbow macaroni in crawfish stock until al dente (approximately 6 minutes). Drain the pasta, but remember to save some of that flavorful cooking water!
Prepare Roux and Sauce: In your cast iron skillet, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to create a quick roux. Gradually whisk in the heated milk until you have a smooth, rich, lump-free sauce base.
Melt Cheese: Stir in most of the Colby cheese until it’s fully melted, then sprinkle in the Creole seasoning for a savory kick.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the cooked noodles and crawfish tails, ensuring everything is thoroughly coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Bake and Finish: Top the dish with the remaining cheese and bake until bubbly (around 15 minutes). For a crisp, golden crust, finish it under the broiler for 3 minutes.
Timing Breakdown Chart
Step
Time
Prep
15 minutes
Cook and Assemble
15 minutes
Broil
3 minutes
Total Time
33 minutes
Troubleshooting and Tips
Cheese Clumping? To prevent cheese from clumping, whisk constantly while adding the milk and maintain low heat to ensure the sauce stays smooth.
Sauce Too Thick? If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, gradually add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Perfect Golden Crust: Keep a close eye on the broiler; typically, just 2–3 minutes are needed to achieve that beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Serving and Storage
This rich and creamy Crawfish Mac and Cheese is versatile enough for any occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Weeknight Dinner: It’s quick enough for busy evenings but still feels indulgent.
Potluck Star: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for gatherings or holidays.
Storage Tips: Store any leftover Crawfish Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a splash of milk can help refresh its creamy texture, whether in the microwave or oven.
Storage Method
Duration
Refrigerated
3 Days
Freezer
Not Recommended (texture changes)
Expert Says
Crawfish mac and cheese combines rich proteins from shellfish with the comforting creaminess of cheese, creating a balanced dish both in flavor and texture. Using a blend of sharp and mild cheeses helps achieve a smooth sauce that clings well to pasta, enhancing each bite with a satisfying savory depth.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
Perfecting My Crawfish Mac and Cheese
Getting this Crawfish Mac and Cheese just right took quite a few kitchen experiments. I learned the hard way that balancing creamy cheese with tender crawfish is an art, and each attempt helped me create a cozy, flavorful dish that feels like a warm family hug on a plate.
FAQs ( Crawfish Mac and Cheese )
How do I prepare the crawfish for the dish?
Use cooked and peeled crawfish tails for best results. Rinse them gently to remove any residual grit, then pat dry before adding to the cheese sauce. Adding them too early can cause overcooking, so fold them in near the end to keep their texture tender and flavorful.
Can I make the mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, this dish holds up well when made a few hours ahead. Prepare and assemble it, then refrigerate uncovered to let the top crust stay crisp when reheated. Add crawfish just before baking to avoid toughening the seafood during storage.
What cheese is best for this recipe?
A combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack yields a creamy, flavorful sauce with good melt. These cheeses balance richness without overpowering the crawfish. Avoid pre-shredded varieties to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.
How do I achieve the perfect baked crust?
Top the mac and cheese with a mix of panko breadcrumbs and a little melted butter before baking. This creates a golden, crispy crust. Bake uncovered at a moderate temperature to allow even browning without drying out the creamy interior.
Can this recipe be included in traditional Thanksgiving menus?
Absolutely, it makes a unique and delicious side dish to complement classic mains. Its rich creaminess fits well alongside turkey and sides on a Thanksgiving table. Pair it with lighter vegetables to balance the meal.
Conclusion
You’ll truly adore how this Crawfish Mac and Cheese comes together in just about 30 minutes, baking up golden, incredibly creamy, and fragrant with a gentle Cajun warmth. It’s the ultimate cozy dish that fills your kitchen with comfort and is sure to invite second helpings.
Feel free to experiment with a swap of sharp white cheddar or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra deptha little twist I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen. Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge; simply add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back all that creamy goodness.
I’d love to see your homemade versions of this recipe, or hear if it reminds you of a cherished family dish. Be sure to save this recipe for those nights you crave a little Southern soul on your table. Happy cooking, friendyou’re making memories one cozy bite at a time!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
