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Seafood Mac and Cheese

Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese for the Ultimate Comfort Feast

This indulgent Seafood Mac and Cheese elevates comfort food by combining creamy noodles with fresh seafood, perfect for dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi for a twist
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter essential for the roux
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour thickens the sauce
  • 2 cups whole milk warm for easier mixing
  • 1 cup heavy cream adds richness
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for depth of flavor
  • 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning or paprika + cayenne to enhance seafood flavors
  • 1 tsp garlic powder for seasoning
  • to taste salt to taste
For the Cheese
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated for topping
For the Seafood
  • 1 lb seafood (shrimp, crab, scallops) fresh or well-thawed and patted dry
For the Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter to achieve a nice sear

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • saucepan
  • baking dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add shrimp and scallops, sauté for 2–3 minutes until opaque, season lightly with salt and pepper, then fold in crab meat.
  3. In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add warmed milk and cream while whisking until thickened.
  4. Stir in Dijon mustard, seasonings, and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Fold the cooked pasta and sautéed seafood into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and transfer the mixture into it. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle on top.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust seasonings to taste and feel free to customize with different seafood or vegetables.

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