Air Fryer Shrimp Jumbo Shells Mac and Cheese (Crispy & Cheesy)

Make the best air fryer shrimp mac and cheese shells with a crispy panko topping and creamy cheese sauce. Easy and delicious.

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Servings servings

Calories 646kcal

Cook the shells: Boil shells in salted water until just tender. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season and cook shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry, season with Old Bay seasoning to taste, then cook in 2 tbsp olive oil until pink and the liquid has evaporated. Next, add the chopped spinach. Mix well. Remove and set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In the same pan, cook the diced bell peppers, then add the garlic. Stir in tomato paste.
Make the sauce: Melt butter, whisk in the all-purpose flour, then slowly add the evaporated milk. Cook until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add cheese: Stir in mozzarella and provolone until melted. Add a little pasta water if needed to loosen. Add more cheese.
Combine filling: Fold shrimp and spinach with the cheese.
Stuff shells: Fill each shell with the shrimp mixture.
Assemble: Place shells in a greased air fryer-safe dish. Spoon remaining sauce over top and add more cheese if desired.
Top with panko: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly and lightly drizzle with oil.
Air fry: Air Fry at 300°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Rest and serve: Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

**** When printing the recipe, please unselect the camera so that the pictures are NOT printed with the recipe (if preferred). ****

This post may contain affiliate links. See our full Privacy Policy. We may receive compensation by clicking on the links and or making a purchase.

Calories are estimated per serving.