Seafood Mac and Cheese (Print-Friendly Version)
Creamy mac and cheese with shrimp, crab, and three cheeses—perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 -
340 g cavatappi pasta, cooked al dente and drained
→ Cheese Sauce
02 -
42 g unsalted butter
03 -
24 g all-purpose flour
04 -
354 ml canned evaporated milk
05 -
180 ml half & half
06 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
07 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
09 -
0.5 teaspoon salt
10 -
0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Cheese Blend
11 -
85 g shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
12 -
85 g shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided
13 -
85 g shredded Gouda cheese, divided
→ Seafood
14 -
227 g large cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
15 -
227 g imitation crab meat, roughly chopped
# How to Make It:
01 -
Preheat oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a 33x23 cm baking or casserole dish and set aside.
02 -
Cook cavatappi pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente. Rinse with cold water, drain thoroughly, and set aside.
03 -
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to achieve a golden, smooth consistency.
04 -
Gradually whisk in evaporated milk and half & half, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
05 -
Incorporate onion powder, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the sauce. Mix until combined.
06 -
Reduce heat to low. Add 60 g each of mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, and Gouda cheeses. Stir until thoroughly melted and the sauce is smooth.
07 -
Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring all pieces are coated. Gently add shrimp and imitation crab, mixing carefully to keep seafood intact.
08 -
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the remaining 25 g each of mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, and Gouda cheeses on top.
09 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and lightly golden. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
# Extra Information:
01 -
For best results, allow mac and cheese to rest after baking for a creamier texture.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.