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Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

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This decadent Seafood Mac and Cheese combines tender shrimp, imitation crab meat, and a trio of melted cheeses enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce over perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a comforting dish ideal for special occasions or a hearty family meal.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Seafood

  • 8 ounces large cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
  • 8 ounces imitation crab meat, roughly chopped

Pasta

  • 12 ounces cavatappi pasta, cooked to al dente per package instructions

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 12 ounces canned evaporated milk
  • 3/4 cup half & half
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 3/4 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided
  • 3/4 cup shredded gouda cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish and set aside.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water, drain thoroughly, and set aside.
  3. Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden and smooth, developing the base of the sauce.
  4. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk and half & half, ensuring to prevent lumps. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  5. Season Sauce: Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper to infuse the sauce with robust flavors. Mix well to combine.
  6. Incorporate Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add half of the shredded mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, and gouda cheeses (about 1/2 cup each). Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce has become smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine Pasta and Seafood: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and chopped imitation crab meat, careful to keep the seafood intact.
  8. Transfer and Top: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses (1/4 cup each of mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, and gouda) evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to settle. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy seafood delight.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melting and flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook the pasta during the boiling stage to avoid mushy mac and cheese.
  • You can substitute imitation crab with real lump crab meat for a more authentic seafood experience.
  • Old Bay seasoning is key for that classic seafood flavor; do not omit.
  • This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving, making it great for entertaining.
  • Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/seafood-mac-and-cheese-recipe/