Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese

A rich, indulgent twist on the classic comfort food – with shrimp, crab, and plenty of cheese!

This Seafood Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. It combines tender pasta with a creamy, cheesy béchamel sauce and is packed with succulent shrimp, lump crab meat, and a crunchy, golden breadcrumb topping. Whether for a weeknight treat or a holiday side dish, this dish is as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients:
Pasta & Seafood:
12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni or shells

½ lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled & deveined

½ lb (225 g) lump crab meat (or imitation if preferred)

1 tbsp butter

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt & pepper to taste

Cheese Sauce:
4 tbsp unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk, warmed

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack, shredded

½ tsp Old Bay seasoning

¼ tsp smoked paprika

Salt & pepper to taste

Topping (Optional):
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp butter, melted

2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated

Pinch of paprika

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water according to package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Seafood
In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

Add garlic, then shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink.

Stir in crab meat, season with salt & pepper, and remove from heat.

Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.

Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.

Cook, stirring, until slightly thickened (4–5 minutes).

Stir in cheeses, Old Bay, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Mix until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything
Fold in the cooked pasta and seafood mixture into the cheese sauce.

Transfer to a greased baking dish.

Add the Topping (Optional)
Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika.

Sprinkle over mac and cheese.

Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Variations
Add lobster, scallops, or clams for more variety.

For spice, stir in a few dashes of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning.

Can be made ahead and reheated — perfect for entertaining.