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Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese, featuring a delicious blend of seafood and cheese, is showcased as the article's featured image.

BEST SEAFOOD MAC AND CHEESE

This Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe is a comforting and sophisticated dish, perfect for turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. It features tender chunks of lobster, sweet shrimp, and flaky crab nestled in a creamy, decadent cheese sauce, all coating perfectly cooked pasta.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 800
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 ounces Gruyere cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
  • 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces lump crab meat, picked over
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan or Dutch oven
  • Large Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • Serving dish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  6. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
  9. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  10. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  11. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  12. Add the cooked lobster, shrimp, and crab meat to the skillet.
  13. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be gentle – you don't want to overcook the seafood.
  14. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
  15. Gently fold in the seafood mixture.
  16. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge.

Notes

Don't overcook the pasta; al dente holds its shape better. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly. Use high-quality seafood for the best flavor. Adjust the cheese blend to your liking. You can prepare the mac and cheese base and the seafood separately, then combine them just before serving. For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the mac and cheese and bake it in the oven until golden brown. Lobster, crab, or shrimp mac and cheese variations are also delicious. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick or sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added nutrients and flavor.