Okay, friend get ready for a creamy, dreamy twist on a classic comfort food favorite. This Seafood Mac and Cheese is the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and say “mmmmm” with every bite. We’re talking rich, velvety cheese sauce tangled with tender pasta and studded with succulent bits of seafood. It’s the ultimate indulgence and honestly, a little bit of magic in casserole form.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just craving a cozy night in with something extra, this recipe brings a touch of elegance without being fussy. Think lobster mac vibes without the white tablecloth. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

Why You’ll Love Seafood Mac and Cheese

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. You can dress it up with lobster or keep it cozy with shrimp and crab.

Budget-Friendly: Use a blend of seafood based on what’s available or on sale you don’t need expensive ingredients to make this luxurious.

Quick and Easy: Comes together faster than you’d think, with simple prep and easy layering.

Customizable: Add spices, breadcrumbs, or your favorite cheeses to make it your own masterpiece.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Seafood Mac and Cheese

This luscious bake is creamy, cheesy, and full of seafood goodness. Let’s take a peek at what you’ll need:

Elbow Macaroni

The base of it all—perfectly bite-sized to catch all that cheesy sauce in every nook.

Cooked Shrimp

Tender and sweet, shrimp adds that signature seafood flavor and gorgeous texture.

Lump Crab Meat

Delicate and buttery, crab meat melts into the sauce for that classic coastal richness.

White Cheddar Cheese

Sharp and bold, it gives the sauce its classic cheesy tang.

Mozzarella Cheese

For that ooey-gooey melt factor yes, we’re going all in.

Butter

The start of our roux rich and smooth to build the perfect sauce base.

All-Purpose Flour

Helps thicken the sauce into creamy perfection.

Milk or Half-and-Half

For a rich, velvety cheese sauce that hugs every piece of pasta.

Old Bay Seasoning

Brings a warm, slightly spicy, unmistakably coastal vibe.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder

Just enough kick to round out the flavors without overpowering the seafood.

Parsley (optional)

Fresh, chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a little herbal brightness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your casserole the perfect golden top while heating everything through evenly.

Combine Ingredients

Boil the macaroni according to the package instructions. While it cooks, sauté your shrimp if not already cooked. Set both aside.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup so much easier.

Assemble the Dish

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in cheeses, seasonings, shrimp, and crab. Fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and top with a little extra cheese and optional breadcrumbs.

Cook to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the cheese settles and thickens slightly.

Finishing Touches

Sprinkle with chopped parsley or a pinch of extra Old Bay if you’re feeling bold.

Serve and Enjoy

Dig in while it’s hot and gooey! Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for balance or just grab a fork and go solo. We don’t judge.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 580

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Seafood Mac and Cheese

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve alongside roasted broccoli or green beans for a pop of freshness.
– Add a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping into all that cheesy sauce.
– Pair with a light white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a fancy touch.
– For a Southern twist, serve with coleslaw or hush puppies.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt pre-shredded doesn’t melt quite as nicely.
– If using frozen seafood, be sure to thaw and pat dry before adding.
– Want it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
– For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.
– Make it ahead by assembling the dish, covering it, and storing in the fridge up to one day before baking.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes! Lobster, scallops, or even imitation crab work well.

2. Is it okay to use frozen shrimp or crab?
Absolutely, just make sure to thaw and drain well to avoid a watery dish.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep it the day before and bake it when ready to serve.

4. What pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi, penne, or shells all work beautifully.

5. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the oven.

7. How do I keep the cheese sauce from getting grainy?
Use low heat and whisk constantly while adding the cheese. Avoid overheating.

8. What can I substitute for Old Bay?
Try Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, celery salt, and pepper.

9. Can I skip the oven step?
If you’re in a hurry, serve it straight from the stovetop it’ll still be delicious!

10. What’s the best cheese combo?
A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella is perfect, but feel free to add Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan!

Conclusion

This Seafood Mac and Cheese is everything you love about classic mac, taken to a whole new level of cozy, creamy, seaside-inspired deliciousness. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy comfort and elegant flavor something you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself to something special, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So go ahead, dig in and enjoy every luxurious, seafood-kissed bite!

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