Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe that is indulgent, creamy, and full of flavor!
Ingredients
For the pasta:
12 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta) 1 tbsp butter
For the seafood:
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined ½ lb lump crab meat (or lobster meat) 1 tbsp butter 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp black pepper
For the cheese sauce:
3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp all-purpose flour 2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 1 tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For the topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 tbsp butter, melted ¼ tsp smoked paprika Instructions
Cook the pasta:
Prepare the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and mix with 1 tbsp butter to avoid sticking.
Prepare the seafood:
In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Incorporate the crab meat and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Assemble the mac and cheese:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seafood, and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the topping:
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and smoked paprika. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy!
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley.
