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Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

This seafood mac and cheese recipe combines shrimp, crab, pasta, milk, and cheddar cheese into a creamy, rich, and comforting baked dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Medium saucepan (for sauce)
  • Large skillet (for seafood)
  • Baking dish (9x13 recommended)
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Colander
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

For the pasta and seafood:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 200 grams shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 150 grams crab meat or white fish chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the cheese sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For topping:

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the seafood

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp and crab (or fish) and cook for 3–4 minutes until just done. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Step 3: Make the roux

  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a smooth paste. This step removes the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Build the sauce

  • Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add the cheese

  • Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until fully melted and smooth. Add paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6: Combine everything

  • In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, seafood, and cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Assemble

  • Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.

Step 8: Bake

  • Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Step 9: Rest and serve

  • Let the dish sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle and makes it easier to serve.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just until al dente
  • Avoid overcooking seafood to keep it tender
  • Stir the sauce constantly to prevent lumps
  • Use full-fat milk for a richer texture
  • Bake just until golden, not dry
Keyword Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe