Ever had one of those days where you just need a big, gooey, comforting bowl of mac and cheese to make everything right in the world? Now, imagine that cheesy heaven mixed with succulent seafood—sounds like a dream, right? Welcome to the ultimate Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe! This dish combines the rich creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the fresh, briny goodness of your favorite seafood. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Who Might Enjoy This Seafood Mac and Cheese Dish
Seafood Mac and Cheese is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with a gourmet twist. It’s great for date nights, family dinners, or impressing your friends at a potluck. If you’re a seafood lover who can’t resist a cheesy pasta dish, this recipe is your new best friend.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Seafood: You can use shrimp, crab, lobster, or a mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, try scallops or even a white fish like haddock.
- Cheese: Swap out cheddar for Gruyère, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile. A bit of Parmesan can add a nice salty kick.
- Milk: For a creamier sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of regular milk.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells, cavatappi, or penne work just as well.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender seafood is a match made in heaven. The richness of the cheese pairs perfectly with the delicate sweetness of the seafood, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, contrasting nicely with the creamy pasta. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can make it your own with your favorite seafood and cheeses.
Seafood Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow pasta
- ½ lb shrimp peeled deveined
- 2 2-3 oz lobster tails cooked
- 2 lbs crab legs deshelled
- 8 Tablespoons butter
- 8 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cups colby jack cheese separated
- 3 cup gruyere cheese separated
- 2 cup smoked gouda cheese separated
- 8 oz of Velveeta Cheese cubbed
- 1 teaspoon old bay seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- First things first, preheat that oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Now, grab a large pot and bring 3 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the pasta and cook it up according to the directions on the box—about 8 minutes for that perfect al-dente bite. Scoop the noodles out with a spider strainer and set them aside.
- Next, in a large measuring cup or glass, combine your milk and heavy cream. Set that aside too. In a large bowl, mix together all of your cheeses. You guessed it—set that aside.
- In a separate medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it smells toasty and delicious. Slowly whisk in the milk/cream mixture along with your seasonings. Let it simmer and thicken, whisking often. This should take around 5 minutes.
- Once that’s done, remove from heat and stir in the cheese you set aside earlier and your cooked seafood.
- In a large bowl, pour the cheesy goodness over the noodles and give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 pan or a cast-iron skillet. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese on top.
- Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until it’s all bubbly and gooey. For an extra crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is perfectly browned. Serve it up and enjoy!
Notes
- I’d suggest using seafood from a previous day’s boil or entree. Simply because PREP TIME with this entree was hell. I have to say that I took an extra hour prepping fresh seafood.
FAQs About Seafood Mac and Cheese
Q: Can I use frozen seafood? A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven helps maintain the crispy topping.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a decadent, cheesy, seafood-packed delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe is a winner every time. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us—we love seeing your delicious takes on this classic dish. Make sure you pair this with one of my favorite cocktails! Also, like my Facebook page here.
