A creamy and delicious seafood mac and cheese recipe that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with shrimp and crab meat, perfect for family gatherings.
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup cooked crab meat
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Fold in the cooked macaroni, shrimp, and crab meat until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Substitute the seafood with cooked chicken or vegetables for a different twist on this classic dish.