Introduction:
Seafood Mac and Cheese is a luxurious twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with tender seafood and pasta. This indulgent dish features a medley of seafood delights such as shrimp, crab meat, and scallops, all nestled in a rich and cheesy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a special meal, this Seafood Mac and Cheese recipe is sure to impress with its decadent flavors and irresistible texture.
Ingredients:
For the Seafood:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup (150g) lump crab meat
- 1 cup (150g) sea scallops, halved
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Macaroni:
- 12 ounces (340g) elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice
- Salt for boiling water
Optional Additions:
- Bread crumbs for topping
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seafood:
- Season the shrimp, crab meat, and scallops with salt and black pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the seasoned seafood to the skillet and cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque, scallops are lightly browned, and crab meat is heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the seafood and sprinkle chopped parsley. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
- Cook the elbow macaroni or pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens, stirring frequently, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
4. Combine and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni, cooked seafood, and cheese sauce. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs over the top for a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the Seafood Mac and Cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Success:
- Use a combination of your favorite seafood for variety and flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the seafood to prevent it from becoming tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the amount of cheese and seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: Approximately 600-700
- Total Fat: Approximately 35-40g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 200-250mg
- Sodium: Approximately 700-800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
- Sugars: Approximately 5-7g
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
Recommendation:
Seafood Mac and Cheese is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for special occasions or as a comforting meal on a cozy night in. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to indulge in some cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the creamy, savory flavors of this Seafood Mac and Cheese Delight!
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