Seafood Mac and Cheese

This Seafood Mac and Cheese combines rich, velvety cheese sauce with tender shrimp and crab, making it a seafood lover’s dream. The comforting pasta dish is topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, adding texture to every bite. The layers of flavor, from the smooth cheese to the succulent seafood, create the ultimate indulgence.

1. Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb crab meat, shredded
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking and stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked macaroni, shrimp, and crab meat to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and a little extra cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings