Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s something magical about a bubbling dish of seafood mac and cheese landing on the dinner table. The first time I made this creamy, cheesy comfort food packed with shrimp and crab, it instantly became a family favorite. My kids couldn’t stop asking for more, and even my picky eater devoured it without question. It’s one of those meals that feels a little fancy but is surprisingly easy to throw together after a long day. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, seafood mac and cheese brings everyone to the table with smiles and full hearts.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Mac and Cheese

Seafood mac and cheese combines the best of both worlds—comforting, gooey macaroni with the rich, buttery flavor of fresh seafood. It’s an elevated twist on the classic everyone loves. Whether you’re craving something cozy or hosting friends for dinner, this dish delivers elegance without the stress. The creamy sauce hugs every bite of pasta, while the shrimp, crab, or even lobster add sweet, briny depth that makes it unforgettable. It’s versatile enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions. Once you taste this seafood mac and cheese, you’ll find yourself craving it over and over again.

Ingredients for Seafood Mac and Cheese

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering seafood mac and cheese:

Ingredient	Amount
Elbow macaroni	1 lb
Butter	1/2 cup (1 stick)
All-purpose flour	1/4 cup
Whole milk	3 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded	2 cups
Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese	1 cup
Cooked shrimp (peeled & deveined)	1/2 lb
Lump crab meat or lobster chunks	1/2 lb
Old Bay seasoning	1 tsp
Salt and pepper	To taste
Breadcrumbs (optional topping)	1/2 cup

Substitutions & Variations for Seafood Mac and Cheese

This seafood mac and cheese recipe is endlessly adaptable. Don’t have shrimp or crab? Use scallops or white fish like cod. Prefer a more budget-friendly option? Imitation crab works in a pinch, or skip the seafood entirely for a simple, cheesy version. For a spicy kick, stir in cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños. Want extra creaminess? Add a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese to the sauce. Gluten-free pasta and flour can easily replace regular versions for dietary needs. Swap cheddar for gouda or fontina for a bolder twist. Whatever variation you choose, this seafood mac and cheese stays indulgent and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
3. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Gently fold in the cooked macaroni, shrimp, and lump crab meat. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
6. Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.
7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For the creamiest sauce, use whole milk and heavy cream combined—the fat content makes a huge difference. Don’t skip the roux step; it’s the foundation for a smooth, thick sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. If you’re short on time, precooked seafood works great, but be careful not to overcook it during baking to avoid toughness. Adding Old Bay seasoning balances the richness with a subtle spice that complements the seafood beautifully. Finally, to keep the breadcrumb topping crisp, toast it lightly in a pan before sprinkling.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover seafood mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and warm it gently in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave on medium power. Avoid overheating, which can dry out the sauce and toughen the seafood. For meal prep, you can prepare the mac and cheese through step 5, then refrigerate or freeze before baking. When ready to serve, thaw if frozen, then bake as directed until bubbly and golden.

Best Sides to Serve

Seafood mac and cheese is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with lighter, fresh sides creates a balanced meal. Crisp green salads with vinaigrette cut through the creaminess perfectly. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add color and nutrients. For a Southern-inspired meal, serve it alongside sautéed collard greens or a tangy coleslaw. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can be great for soaking up any extra sauce. If you want to keep it classic, a simple lemon wedge on the side adds a bright pop that complements the seafood flavors beautifully.

FAQ about Seafood Mac and Cheese

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 6)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550 kcal
Protein	35 g
Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	15 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	800 mg

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