Description
This Seafood Mac & Cheese recipe combines creamy, cheesy pasta with succulent shrimp and lump crab meat for a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food. Baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s the ultimate indulgence that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Seafood
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
Topping & Garnish
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the warm whole milk and heavy cream, stirring frequently to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for about 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the sauce from the heat and mix in the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Seafood and Pasta: Gently fold the cooked pasta, chopped shrimp, and lump crab meat into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve hot for a comforting and indulgent meal.
Notes
- Using warmed milk and cream helps prevent lumps in the sauce for a smoother texture.
- The breadcrumbs topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch—panko breadcrumbs can be used for lighter texture.
- Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with fusilli, penne, or shells as preferred.
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooked before mixing in to prevent any raw seafood taste.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead and baked fresh to save time.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
