This rich, creamy mac and cheese is loaded with tender shrimp, crab, and scallops for a luxurious twist on a classic comfort dish. It’s perfect for special dinners, holidays, or any night you want something warm, comforting, and extra delicious.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta you like)
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
Seafood
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (or chopped imitation crab)
- ½ cup cooked scallops (optional)
Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the macaroni until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and bubbly.
3. Add the Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk.
Continue stirring for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
4. Add Seasonings & Cheese
Remove the saucepan from heat.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and all three cheeses.
Mix until the sauce becomes smooth, rich, and creamy.
5. Fold in the Seafood
Gently stir in the shrimp, crab, and scallops.
6. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and mix until every noodle is coated.
7. Optional: Bake It
For a golden, bubbly finish:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese or buttered breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes.
8. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Seafood Mac and Cheese
- Use fresh or well-thawed seafood for the best taste and texture.
- Swap or add cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- For crunch, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake on top.
- A fresh salad or roasted veggies make great sides to balance the richness.
