Seafood Mac and Cheese

There’s comfort food… and then there’s Seafood Mac and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with crab, shrimp, and a buttery topping—it’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent and unforgettable.

I still remember the first time I had it back in college. I was feeling under the weather, and my roommate surprised me with a homemade pan of seafood mac. She knew I loved shellfish, but she had no idea this one dish would completely change how I thought about macaroni and cheese forever. One bite in, I was hooked!

This recipe is elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for potlucks or a cozy night in. It’s the ultimate comfort casserole with a touch of luxury.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dry macaroni

• 6 oz claw crab meat

• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 8 oz sour cream

• 4 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp flour

• 1 spring onion, finely chopped

• 1 can evaporated milk

• 8 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, grated

• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, grated

• ¼ cup panko bread crumbs

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Paprika, for garnish

How to Make Seafood Mac and Cheese

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and place in a large mixing bowl. Stir in sour cream until noodles are coated.

Step 2 – Add the Seafood
Fold in crab meat. Cook shrimp in 2 tbsp butter until just pink, then remove and chop into bite-sized pieces. Add to macaroni mixture.

Step 3 – Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pan, melt remaining butter and sauté onions until tender. Sprinkle in flour, stir, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in evaporated milk, cooking until slightly thickened. Stir in grated cheddar until smooth and melted.

Step 4 – Assemble the Casserole
Pour cheese sauce over macaroni and seafood mixture. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a buttered baking dish.

Step 5 – Top & Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella and breadcrumbs on top. Dust lightly with paprika. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Step 6 – Serve & Enjoy
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Lobster Upgrade – Swap crab for lobster chunks for a luxury twist.

• Extra Creamy – Stir in a little cream cheese to the sauce.

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.

• Make-Ahead – Assemble up to a day in advance; cover and refrigerate until baking.