Seafood Mac and Cheese (Decadent, Family-Style, Ultimate Comfort Food)

Introduction

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni or spiral pasta
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
• 1/2 cup flour
• 3 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature
• 4 cups grated apple smoked Gruyère cheese
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 lb lobster meat (or crab/shrimp)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 Tbsp CWG Spicy Seafood Blend
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or butter (for baking dish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook pasta just to al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, melt 6 Tbsp of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the flour, then whisk constantly until fully combined to create a roux.
4. Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth, about one minute more. Reduce the heat to low.
5. Stir in Gruyère and sharp cheddar cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring to combine completely between additions. Stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan. Remove from heat.
6. Gently fold in cooked pasta, chopped bacon, lobster meat, and Spicy Seafood Blend. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Melt the remaining 2 Tbsp butter and mix it with the panko bread crumbs and remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
8. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is hot throughout and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Substitute crab or shrimp if lobster isn’t available.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or more Spicy Seafood Blend.
• Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Shop our Spicy Seafood Blend
• Explore more comfort food recipes
• Discover more seafood dishes