Seafood Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delectable Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe. Combining tender shrimp, succulent claw crab meat, and creamy cheeses, this dish takes classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level of deliciousness. The blend of flavors and textures, from the rich cheeses to the crunchy breadcrumbs, creates a mouthwatering experience that will satisfy any seafood lover’s cravings.

Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving a cozy meal, this seafood mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness with a delightful seafood twist!

Seafood Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

2 cups of dry Macaroni

6 oz. Claw Crab Meat

8 oz. Shrimp, peeled and deveined

8 oz. Sour Cream

4 Tablespoons Butter

2 Tablespoons Flour

1 Spring Onion

1 can Evaporated Milk

8 oz. block Sharp White Cheddar Cheese

4 oz. block Mozzarella Cheese

¼ cup Panko Bread Crumbs

Salt, Black Pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°.

Peel and de-vein shrimp if necessary.

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.

Place drained macaroni in a large mixing bowl.

Add sour cream, mix well, until all noodles are coated.

Add crab meat, stir well.

Finely chop green onion. Set aside.

Grate white cheddar cheese. Set aside.

Grate mozzarella cheese. Set aside.

Melt butter in a medium saucepan or skillet.

Add shrimp. Turn and toss shrimp until lightly cooked.

Remove shrimp from pan. Chop lightly when cool. Add to macaroni mixture.

Add finely chopped onions to pan, sauté until tender.

Sprinkle flour over onions and mix well. Let cook and brown for about one minute.

Slowly add milk, stirring constantly until mixture begins to thicken.

Gradually add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts.

Pour cheese mixture over macaroni and seafood mixture.

Stir well to combine.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Place the mixture in a well-buttered baking dish.

Sprinkle top with grated mozzarella cheese.

Sprinkle bread crumbs over mozzarella cheese.

Sprinkle lightly with paprika, to add color.

Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.

ENJOY!

Notes:

Ingredients Preparation: Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready before starting the cooking process. This includes peeling and deveining the shrimp, chopping the green onion, and grating the cheeses.

Cooking the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions but aim for an al dente texture as it will continue to cook in the oven. Properly drain the cooked macaroni to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Mixing the Macaroni: Mixing the drained macaroni with sour cream ensures that each noodle is evenly coated, providing a creamy base for the seafood and cheese.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce: Take care when making the cheese sauce to prevent lumps. Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Be patient as the sauce thickens.

Incorporating the Seafood: Gently fold the cooked shrimp and crab meat into the macaroni mixture to avoid breaking up the seafood too much. This ensures each bite is filled with flavorful seafood.

Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning according to taste preferences. Be cautious with the salt as the cheeses and seafood may already contribute saltiness to the dish.

Baking: Use a well-buttered baking dish to prevent sticking. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, while the paprika adds color and flavor.

Presentation: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of freshness.

Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other seafood like scallops or lobster for a luxurious twist.

Enjoyment: Serve the Seafood Mac and Cheese piping hot, straight from the oven, and savor each mouthful of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender seafood bites.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of macaroni?

Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells.

The cooking time might vary, so follow the package instructions.

Can I use frozen seafood instead of fresh shrimp and crab meat?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and crab meat if fresh seafood is not available.

Thaw them according to the package instructions before using.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sharp white cheddar and mozzarella, you can use other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for different flavors.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming lumpy when adding flour and milk?

To prevent lumps in the cheese sauce, gradually add the milk while stirring constantly.

Make sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly after adding the flour to create a smooth roux before adding the milk.

Can I add additional vegetables to the dish for more flavor and nutrition?

Yes, you can enhance the dish by adding sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or even peas.

Just make sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the mixture to ensure they are tender.

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize the seafood based on your preferences.

Consider using cooked lobster, scallops, or even a combination of seafood for variety.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until heated through.

What can I serve as side dishes with Seafood Mac and Cheese?

Consider pairing the dish with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a light soup to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni to make the dish more health-conscious or suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Alternatively, for a milder flavor, you can omit the black pepper.