Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving something truly comforting and indulgent, this Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender shrimp and flaky crab, it combines the cozy familiarity of classic mac and cheese with a delightful oceanic twist. Every bite bursts with rich, savory flavors enhanced by a blend of cheeses and just the right hint of Old Bay seasoning. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the perfectly shaped cavatappi pasta that holds onto the sauce beautifully, to the mix of cheeses that bring that luscious creaminess you’re dreaming of.

• Cavatappi pasta (12 ounces): Its corkscrew shape is perfect for trapping all that cheesy goodness.
• Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Provides a rich base for the roux and avoids adding too much salt.
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce into a velvety consistency.
• Evaporated milk (12 ounces): Adds creaminess without the heaviness of cream.
• Half & half (3/4 cup): Balances the milk for a silky sauce texture.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers subtle savoriness that elevates the flavor.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a warm but not overpowering depth.
• Old Bay seasoning (1 teaspoon): A classic seafood spice blend that makes the dish sing.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick of heat.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (3/4 cup, divided): Melts beautifully to create gooey stretchiness.
• Sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (3/4 cup, divided): Brings a tangy, classic mac and cheese flavor.
• Gouda cheese, shredded (3/4 cup, divided): Adds a smoky, creamy richness unique to this recipe.
• Cooked shrimp (8 ounces): Offers tender seafood bites that blend seamlessly with the creamy pasta.
• Imitation crab meat (8 ounces, chopped): Adds sweetness and a flaky texture reminiscent of fresh crab.

How to Make Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your mac and cheese won’t stick once baked. This simple prep step sets the stage for the perfect finish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Boil your cavatappi pasta until it reaches al dente texture following the package directions—this means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Rinse it with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping, then drain well. The pasta will soak up the luscious cheese sauce later without turning mushy.

Step 3: Make the Roux Base

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture has a smooth, golden look. This step is crucial because the roux is the thickening agent that transforms the liquid into creamy sauce.

Step 4: Whisk in the Dairy

Slowly add evaporated milk and half & half, whisking constantly to keep the sauce silky and lump-free. Continue stirring until it thickens—typically 3 to 4 minutes. This creamy mixture is what makes this Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe irresistibly luscious.

Step 5: Layer in the Flavors

Sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to build that rich depth of flavor that complements both the cheese and the seafood perfectly.

Step 6: Add the Cheeses

Turn the heat to low and add half of the shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Gouda cheeses. Stir until they melt thoroughly and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. This trio of cheeses creates a complex, irresistible flavor profile that defines this Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Seafood

Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is generously coated. Then fold in the cooked shrimp and chopped imitation crab gently, so the seafood stays in nice chunks rather than breaking down into the sauce. This balance keeps you getting those delightful seafood bites every time.

Step 8: Prepare to Bake

Pour the entire macaroni and cheese mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses on top, which will create a golden, bubbly crust that everyone loves.

Step 9: Bake and Enjoy

Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese on top bubbles and turns lightly golden. Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier. Then dive in and savor the creamy, cheesy magic of this Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe.

How to Serve Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your serving by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the rich flavors beautifully, turning your Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe into a feast that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This creamy, indulgent dish pairs nicely with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette or steamed asparagus. The crunch and acidity cut through the richness and make your meal well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs for extra texture. Or try layering the mac and cheese in a casserole with bursts of spinach or diced tomatoes, adding color and an extra flavor punch that surprises guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly stored, it retains its creamy texture and flavor, making for an easy, delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish before baking by covering it tightly with foil and placing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed for warming through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heat distribution. Adding a splash of milk or half & half while reheating helps revive the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh seafood instead of cooked shrimp and imitation crab?

Absolutely! Fresh seafood adds an extra dimension of flavor, but be sure to cook it just before mixing into the mac and cheese to avoid overcooking during baking.

Is it necessary to use three types of cheese?

While the combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Gouda creates the perfect balance of meltiness and depth, you can substitute or omit cheeses based on what you have—just keep the total amount similar.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Cavatappi is preferred because its spiral shape traps the sauce, but you can use elbow macaroni or shell pasta as well, depending on your pantry staples.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour or a cornstarch substitute for the roux and gluten-free pasta. Just make sure any seafood seasoning blends are also free from gluten.

How spicy is the Old Bay seasoning?

Old Bay adds a subtle warmth and complexity without overwhelming heat, so it enhances the seafood flavors delicately rather than spicing things up aggressively.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe that combines the comforts of classic mac and cheese with the elegant flavors of the sea. This dish is perfect for treating yourself or impressing friends and family without a fuss. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making this your go-to recipe whenever you crave a comforting, delicious meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

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