Description
Seafood Mac and Cheese is a luxurious twist on the classic comfort dish, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with tender bites of shrimp, crab, or lobster. It’s indulgent and satisfying, perfect for special occasions or when you want to elevate your mac and cheese game with rich, ocean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni or shell pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
6 oz cooked lump crab meat
8 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-6 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, then gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat.
For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
You can substitute the seafood with scallops or lobster for variation. Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce. If using canned crab, ensure it’s well-drained and free of shells. The dish is rich, so a light side salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely.