Made Grilled Shrimp and Steak with Creamy Mac & Cheese and Broccoli is the kind of hearty, flavor-packed dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough to prepare at home. This satisfying meal brings together juicy grilled shrimp, tender steak, ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese, and perfectly cooked broccoli for a balanced plate that delivers bold flavor and comforting textures in every bite.
Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, a special family dinner, or just want to upgrade your usual weeknight meal, this combination hits all the right notes. You get smoky grilled protein, rich and cheesy pasta, and a fresh green vegetable to round everything out.
Let’s break it down step by step so you can recreate this impressive dish in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Made Grilled Shrimp and Steak with Creamy Mac & Cheese and Broccoli
There are so many reasons this meal stands out.
First, it offers the best of both worlds. You get surf and turf with the grilled shrimp and steak, which makes dinner feel special without requiring complicated techniques.
Second, the creamy mac and cheese adds pure comfort. The velvety cheese sauce coats every bite of pasta, making it rich, smooth, and deeply satisfying.
Third, the broccoli balances the plate. Its mild flavor and slight crunch contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta and savory grilled meats.
Here’s what makes this recipe especially appealing:
- Perfect for celebrations or family dinners
- High in protein and filling
- Customizable with different cheeses or seasonings
- Easy to prep ahead in stages
- Balanced with protein, carbs, and vegetables
It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone at the table happy.
Ingredients for Made Grilled Shrimp and Steak with Creamy Mac & Cheese and Broccoli
This recipe is divided into three main components: the grilled shrimp and steak, the creamy mac and cheese, and the broccoli.
For the Grilled Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Steak
- 1 to 1½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Mac & Cheese
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
For the Broccoli
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Notes and Healthy Swaps
Steak Options: Sirloin is leaner and budget-friendly, while ribeye is more tender and rich. You can also use strip steak.
Shrimp Tip: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar gives strong flavor. For variety, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mild white cheddar.
Lighter Sauce Option: Use 2% milk instead of whole milk. You can also replace part of the cheese with Greek yogurt stirred in off heat for a protein boost.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour in the roux.
Vegetable Variation: You can steam, roast, or sauté the broccoli depending on your texture preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Grill and Ingredients
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Pat the shrimp dry and place them in a bowl. Toss with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside.
Rub the steak with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before grilling.
Step 2 – Grill the Steak
Place the steak on the hot grill. Cook for about 4–6 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness.
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy:
- 130–135°F for medium-rare
- 135–145°F for medium
Remove from the grill and let it rest for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. Resting keeps the juices inside the meat.
Step 3 – Grill the Shrimp
Thread the shrimp onto skewers or place them in a grill basket.
Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so avoid overcooking.
Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 4 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5 – Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which thickens the sauce.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 6 – Combine the Mac & Cheese
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce.
Stir until all the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7 – Cook the Broccoli
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add broccoli florets, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
You can also steam the broccoli for 3–4 minutes if you prefer a softer texture.
Step 8 – Slice and Assemble
Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
Plate the creamy mac and cheese, add a portion of broccoli, then top with grilled shrimp and steak slices.
Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They should be just pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
- Let the steak rest. This step is crucial for juicy, tender slices.
- Shred cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect smoothness.
- Salt your pasta water generously. It enhances the overall flavor of the mac and cheese.
- Slice steak against the grain. This shortens muscle fibers and improves tenderness.
- Keep the cheese sauce on low heat. High heat can cause it to separate.
Flavor Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or stir hot sauce into the cheese sauce.
Garlic Butter Finish: Drizzle melted garlic butter over the steak and shrimp before serving.
Smoky BBQ Twist: Brush steak with a light layer of BBQ sauce during the final minute of grilling.
Herb Freshness: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the finished plate.
Cheese Upgrade: Add smoked gouda or pepper jack for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This meal is hearty on its own, but you can enhance it with:
- Warm dinner rolls
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted carrots or asparagus
- Fresh lemon wedges for brightness
For drinks, sparkling water with lemon or iced tea pairs nicely without overpowering the flavors.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat mac and cheese gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Warm steak and shrimp separately to avoid overcooking.
Freezing:
Mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Shrimp and steak are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on 4 servings:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 720 |
| Protein | 52g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fat | 36g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Values may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredient brands.
FAQ About Made Grilled Shrimp and Steak with Creamy Mac & Cheese and Broccoli
Can I cook the shrimp and steak without a grill?
Yes. You can cook both in a cast-iron skillet. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and sear the steak on each side until desired doneness. Cook shrimp in the same pan for about 2–3 minutes per side.
What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?
Ribeye offers the most tenderness and flavor due to its marbling. Sirloin is leaner and more affordable while still delivering great taste. Choose based on your preference and budget.
How do I prevent grainy mac and cheese?
Keep the heat low when adding cheese and stir continuously. High heat can cause the cheese to separate, resulting in a grainy texture.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
You can prepare the mac and cheese earlier in the day and reheat it gently before serving. Grill the shrimp and steak fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Absolutely. The flavors are rich but not overly spicy, making it suitable for both kids and adults. You can adjust seasonings to match your family’s taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Made Grilled Shrimp and Steak with Creamy Mac & Cheese and Broccoli
Equipment
- outdoor grill or grill pan
- large pot
- large saucepan
- skillet
- mixing bowls
- tongs
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1.25 lb sirloin or ribeye steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2.5 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat grill to 400–450°F and oil grates. Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub steak with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let steak rest at room temperature 20 minutes.
- Grill steak 4–6 minutes per side for medium-rare (130–135°F) or until desired doneness. Remove and rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers or place in grill basket. Grill 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cook 4–5 minutes until thickened. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
- Add drained pasta to cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Heat olive oil in skillet. Sauté broccoli with salt and pepper for 4–5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp, or steam 3–4 minutes if preferred.
- Slice steak against the grain. Plate mac and cheese with broccoli and top with grilled shrimp and steak slices. Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Made Grilled Shrimp and Steak with Creamy Mac & Cheese and Broccoli is more than just dinner—it’s a complete, satisfying meal that feels special without being complicated. The smoky grilled proteins pair beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta and fresh broccoli, creating a plate that’s balanced, flavorful, and comforting.
Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating your family to something memorable, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to surf and turf comfort meal.