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Creamy baked seafood macaroni and cheese topped with golden breadcrumbs and fresh herbs

Seafood Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in this creamy, decadent seafood macaroni and cheese that blends tender pasta with a velvety cheese sauce and succulent seafood. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, it’s a restaurant-worthy dish you can make at home with ease.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Seafood

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni can substitute shells or cavatappi
  • 1 cup shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup lump crab meat fresh or canned
  • 0.5 cup lobster meat optional, for special occasions

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated

For the Topping

  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp paprika

Optional Seasonings

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the PastaBoil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Step 2: Cook the SeafoodIn a skillet, melt butter and sauté shrimp, lobster, or crab for 3–5 minutes until opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Remove and set aside.
  • Step 3: Make the Cheese SauceMelt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk and cream. Simmer until thickened, then stir in cheeses until smooth and creamy.
  • Step 4: Combine Pasta and SauceMix drained pasta with cheese sauce. Gently fold in the cooked seafood until evenly distributed.
  • Step 5: Assemble and BakePreheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  • Step 6: Garnish and ServeLet rest for 5 minutes, then top with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the sauce. To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk and a spoonful of cream cheese before warming to keep it smooth. You can also add sautéed spinach or peas for freshness.