A deliciously creamy twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this Seafood Mac and Cheese is packed with tender shrimp, melty cheese, and perfectly seasoned pasta. This hearty dish will become a favorite for seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
Pasta:
2 cups elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
Shrimp:
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cheese Sauce:
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Additional:
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
1/2 tsp paprika
Directions:
Cook Pasta:
Cook elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually add heavy cream while whisking to create a smooth sauce. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Cheeses:
Once the sauce is simmering, slowly add in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine. Add in the diced tomatoes and paprika, mixing everything together.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and top with extra shredded cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish & Serve:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Notes:
Shrimp Substitution: You can substitute shrimp with other seafood like crab, lobster, or scallops for a unique flavor.
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to spice things up.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake when you’re ready to serve!
Seafood Mac and Cheese
