A creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese loaded with shrimp, lobster, and crab. This dish is a luxurious twist on a comfort food classic, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions. With layers of gooey cheese and fresh seafood, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
INGREDIENTS
For the Pasta
- 1 lb penne or large elbow pasta
- 3 quarts water
- 3 tbsp kosher salt
For the Cheese Sauce
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups half & half
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1-2 tbsp All-Purpose Seasoning
- 2-3 tsp hot sauce (like Tabasco)
- 1-2 tsp liquid crab boil (optional)
Cheese Blend
- 3 cups grated Gouda or Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cups grated Muenster or mild Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
Seafood
- 1 lb raw shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 1/2–3/4 lb lobster meat, chopped (raw or pre-steamed)
- 1/2–3/4 lb lump crab meat
- Additional
- Nonstick cooking spray (optional)
DIRECTIONS
- Grate all the cheeses and combine them in a large mixing bowl. Set aside 2 cups of the cheese for layering later.
- Lightly season the shrimp and lobster with kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of All-Purpose Seasoning. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the sauce.
- Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 3 tablespoons of salt to the water. Cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Warm the milk and half & half in the microwave for 3–4 minutes. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the flour, cooking for 2 minutes to form a roux. Avoid browning the flour. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk mixture until smooth. Season with All-Purpose Seasoning, hot sauce, and liquid crab boil (if using). Simmer for about 5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Stir in 3 cups of the cheese blend until melted and smooth.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray if desired. Layer half of the pasta and cheese sauce into the dish, followed by half the seafood and 1 cup of the reserved cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, seafood, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
