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Easy & Best Seafood Mac & Cheese

Seafood Mac & Cheese is a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food, combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the succulent flavors of seafood. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, offering a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
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Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • For the Mac & Cheese:
  • 1 lb 450 g elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning optional
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Seafood:
  • 1/2 lb 225 g cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb 225 g lump crab meat
  • 1/2 lb 225 g cooked lobster meat, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional

Instructions
 

  • For the Mac & Cheese:
  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyere cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  • Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
  • For the Seafood:
  • Prepare the Seafood: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, crab meat, and lobster meat (if using). Season with garlic powder and lemon juice. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the seafood is heated through.
  • Mix with Pasta: Gently fold the cooked seafood into the pasta and cheese mixture.
  • For the Topping:
  • Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and chopped parsley (if using).
  • Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the seafood mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
  • Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  • Serve:
  • Plate the Dish: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish: Optionally, garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color.