This Seafood Mac and Cheese is a decadent twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with tender seafood like shrimp, scallops, and crab. Rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or whenever you want to elevate your mac and cheese game. With its velvety cheese sauce, succulent seafood, and optional crispy topping, it’s sure to satisfy both seafood lovers and mac-and-cheese enthusiasts alike. Let’s dive into this luxurious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Cheesy: A luscious cheese sauce coats every bite of pasta and seafood.
- Elevated Comfort Food: The addition of seafood makes this dish feel fancy yet familiar.
- Customizable: Use your favorite seafood combinations or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it easy to prepare and enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Seafood:
- 1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb scallops, patted dry
- 1/2 cup lump crabmeat (optional, for extra luxury)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking seafood)
- 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning for a kick)
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden but not browned.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
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