Rich, velvety, and loaded with tender seafood, this luxurious mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish with a gourmet twist. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you want something cozy and impressive. One bite and you’ll understand why this creamy seafood pasta is unforgettable!
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Seafood
12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni or shell pasta
1 tbsp butter
1 lb (450 g) mixed seafood (shrimp, crab, scallops, or lobster), chopped into bite-size pieces
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
For the Cheese Sauce
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups (720 ml) whole milk
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional: 1–2 tsp hot sauce for extra flavor
For the Topping
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
Preparation
- Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water.
Add the pasta and cook until al dente (slightly firm).
Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Seafood
In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add the mixed seafood. Season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay.
Cook 2–3 minutes until just cooked (do NOT overcook).
Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter.
Whisk in 4 tbsp flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
Simmer until thick and creamy.
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir until smooth and melted.
- Assemble the Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a large bowl, combine:
Cooked pasta
Cheese sauce
Cooked seafood
Mix gently so you don’t break the seafood.
- Add the Topping
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan.
Sprinkle evenly over the surface.
- Bake
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden, bubbly, and lightly crisp on
Enjoy