Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe
Mac and cheese is already a timeless comfort dish, but when you add tender, juicy seafood into the mix, it transforms into a rich and indulgent meal that feels truly special. Creamy seafood mac and cheese combines the best of both worlds: the cozy familiarity of cheesy pasta and the luxurious flavour of fresh seafood. It is the kind of dish that impresses guests at dinner parties yet is simple enough to prepare for a comforting weeknight treat.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use shrimp, crab, or lobster, each adding a unique flavour to the creamy cheese sauce. The seafood blends perfectly with the cheesy base, creating a dish that feels decadent but is easy to enjoy. This recipe is a perfect choice when you want a restaurant-style dish at home that balances comfort with a touch of elegance.
Why You Need This Recipe
This recipe takes classic mac and cheese to a new level with the addition of fresh seafood, making it rich, flavourful, and satisfying. It is an excellent choice for seafood lovers who want to try something different while still enjoying the comfort of a familiar dish. Whether served as a main course or a side dish at gatherings, it adds sophistication to your table without requiring complicated cooking techniques.
Ingredients
To prepare this rich and flavorful dish, here is a list of ingredients with approximate calorie counts for each:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 pound | 1680 |
| Shrimp (peeled, deveined) | 1/2 pound | 240 |
| Lump crab meat or lobster | 1/2 pound | 200 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | 300 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 400 |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | 400 |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | 110 |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups | 800 |
| Gruyère cheese | 1 cup | 420 |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | 200 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Old Bay seasoning | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | 0 |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | 10 |
How to Prepare
Begin by cooking the pasta until just al dente, then drain and set aside. In a skillet, saute the shrimp in a little butter and garlic until just pink, then remove from heat. If using crab or lobster, keep it ready to fold in later. In a large pot, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Gradually add the milk and cream while whisking to form a silky base. Stir in cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is creamy and thick. Season with Old Bay, salt, and black pepper for depth of flavour. Add the pasta to the cheese sauce and fold until evenly coated. Gently mix in the cooked seafood, being careful not to overcook it. You can serve this creamy dish immediately or bake it at 350°F for about 20 minutes with a breadcrumb topping for a golden, bubbly finish.
Pro Tips
For the richest flavour, shred your cheese from a block instead of using pre shredded varieties that contain anti caking agents. Slightly undercook your pasta so it holds its shape once combined with the cheese sauce. When cooking shrimp, remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture. If you prefer a stronger seafood taste, add a splash of seafood stock to the sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
This creamy seafood mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread. To elevate the dish even further, top it with a buttery breadcrumb crust or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before baking. A drizzle of lemon butter or hot sauce also enhances the seafood flavor and adds a subtle kick. For presentation, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Conclusion
Creamy seafood mac and cheese is a decadent yet comforting dish that combines the richness of creamy cheese with the delicate flavour of seafood. It is easy to prepare, versatile, and guaranteed to impress whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Once you try this recipe, it is sure to become a go to favourite whenever you crave something indulgent and satisfying.
