Seafood Mac and Cheese

This seafood mac and cheese recipe is a family favorite. It’s always a hit at potlucks and gatherings, and it’s the perfect comfort food for a cold winter night.

There’s something about the creamy sauce and cheesy goodness that just makes everyone happy.

When you are looking for a unique dish that will be well-loved and is easy to make, Seafood Mac and Cheese is the one for you!

The dish is super easy and is a great comfort food for those long winter days and evenings. It is loaded with cheese and a creamy sauce.

So, moms, this one is for you! A seafood mac and cheese recipe that is not only delicious but easy to make.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why do I love this recipe?

This recipe is one that was passed down to my mother and then to me. It is creamy, cheesy and so easy to make. I think of it as one of those cozy meals that brings memories for years to come. Everyone is happy, laughing and enjoying a great meal.

Can I use frozen Shrimp? How do I thaw it?

You certainly can use frozen shrimp if you do not have freshly available. It is easy to thaw, just place the shrimp into a sieve and run cold water over them. It should not take too long to thaw.

Do you keep the tails on the shrimp?

You can definitely keep the tails on the shrimp when you make the Seafood Mac and Cheese. The tails add flavor and texture to the dish.

What type of crab should I use?

The best type of crab meat to use would be lump crab meat. Lump Crab meat is light and fluffy and has a milder flavor to it.

What type of pasta should I use?

With so many options available to choose from, it is a matter of what you prefer. You could use elbow macaroni, small shell pasta, or even penne or rigatoni.

What type of baking dish should I use?

Any type of baking dish is going to work when baking this dish. Glass or ceramic work great. The size also does not matter, it would depend on the amount you make if you double the recipe or halve it.

Ingredients:

• Elbow macaroni
• Cooked shrimp cut into pieces
• Crab meat
• Butter unsalted and divided
• Panko bread crumbs
• Onion chopped
• Minced garlic
• Milk
• Heavy whipping cream
• Flour
• Old Bay seasoning
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Gruyere cheese shredded
• Cheddar cheese shredded
• Parmesan cheese grated
• Paprika

How to make Seafood Mac and Cheese:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2. Cook the macaroni until it is al dente, rinse, and drain well.

Step 3. Add 2 tbsp of melted butter to the panko bread crumbs in a small bowl, mix well to combine, and set aside.

Step 4. Place the other 4 tbsp of butter into a saucepan over medium heat on the stove.

Step 5. Add the onions to the melted butter, and cook until they begin to soften.

Step 6. Add the garlic into the skillet, and saute another 30 seconds.

Step 7. Place the flour in the skillet, and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute.

Step 8. Whisk the milk and heavy whipping cream into the mixture in the saucepan.

Step 9. Then, add in the Old Bay seasoning, nutmeg

Step 10. Lastly, add paprika and salt and pepper to taste.

Step 11. Continue to cook the mixture until it thickens.

Step 12. Whisk the cheeses into the sauce mixture until completely melted.

Step 11. Stir the seafood into the cheese mixture, and cook until heated through.

Step 12. Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine.

Step 13. Layer the macaroni in a 9×13 baking dish, and top with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 14. Bake for 30 minutes before serving.

THANKS FOR PINING!

What cheese is best to use for Seafood Mac and Cheese?

Cheddar Cheese is the most often used because it does melt so easily. You could also combine it with other cheeses such as gouda or brie.

How do I store this Mac and Cheese recipe?

The Seafood Mac and Cheese dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The dish is also easy to freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat the dish, place it in the microwave or oven until it is heated through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish can certainly be made ahead of time. Prepare as directed, cool completely, cover, and place in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 4 days. When you are ready to serve, simply reheat the dish in the oven or microwave.

Other Similar Recipes Ideas

Here are some other similar recipes that you might enjoy:

Traditional Mac and Cheese – So good.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – filling and nutritious recipe mac and cheese recipe.