Here’s a rich and creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe, packed with shrimp, crab, and lobster! This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients:
For the pasta and seafood:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or shells
- 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat
- 1/4 lb lobster meat (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (for seafood)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the cheese sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Seafood:
- In a pan, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Add crab and lobster meat just to warm through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the warm milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Pasta, Seafood, and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta and seafood into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine. Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy!
This Seafood Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a decadent meal.