Seafood Mac and Cheese

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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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