Braised Beef & Shrimp Takeout Meal with Mac and Cheese

 

Ingredients:

For the Braised Beef:

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks

2 tbsp olive oil medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef broth

1 cup red wine (optional)

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 .tbsp olive oil

1 .tsp garlic powder

1 .tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Mac and Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Braised Beef:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Season beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.

Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Cook the Shrimp:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Season shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Sauté the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly charred.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Mac and Cheese:

Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.

Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Once the sauce thickens, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan.

Season with salt and pepper, then add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat.

Assemble the Takeout Meal:

In a takeout container, layer a generous portion of braised beef, followed by a few pieces of sautéed shrimp.

Spoon a heaping portion of creamy mac and cheese next to the meat and shrimp.

Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

This hearty takeout meal offers a comforting balance of rich, savory flavors with the perfect amount of indulgence. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special treat!