Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese is an indulgent twist on the classic comfort food, combining rich, cheesy pasta with succulent seafood. Loaded with shrimp, crab, and a luscious cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for special occasions or when you just need a decadent treat. Let’s bring a bit of the ocean to your table with this luxurious mac and cheese!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden and forms a smooth paste.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine with Seafood and Bake
- Add the Seafood: Stir in the shrimp, crab meat, and green onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the seafood is evenly incorporated.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese and seafood mixture, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Seafood Options: You can mix and match seafood depending on what you have available. Scallops or lobster would also be great additions.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven while baking.
- Cheese Mixture: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda or fontina would also be great additions for an even creamier texture.
Variations
- Spicy Seafood Mac and Cheese: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb: Add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a refreshing twist.
- Bacon Addition: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top before adding the breadcrumbs for an extra savory layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Green Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread to soak up the extra cheesy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts make for a great vegetable side to add freshness and crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Use Frozen Seafood?
Yes, frozen shrimp or crab can be used. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before adding them to the dish.
Is There a Lighter Version?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. You can also use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese is a decadent twist on a beloved classic, combining the rich flavors of the sea with a creamy, cheesy pasta base. It’s perfect for a special dinner or whenever you want to elevate your comfort food game. Gather your ingredients, bake this dish, and enjoy a luxurious meal with friends and family!
Happy Cooking!
