Mac ‘n’ Cheese Seafood Version

Mac ‘n’ Cheese Seafood Version

Ingredients

For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Seafood:

• 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces crab meat (canned or fresh, picked over for shells)
• 8 ounces scallops, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking seafood)
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
5. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Cook the Seafood:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the shrimp, crab meat, and scallops with Old Bay seasoning, if using.
3. Cook the shrimp and scallops in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Combine Everything:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Stir in the cooked seafood.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy!

• This Mac ‘n’ Cheese Seafood Version combines creamy, cheesy pasta with succulent seafood for a decadent twist on a classic comfort food!