Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese! This dish isn’t just macaroni and cheese; it’s a glorious celebration of seafood goodness wrapped in creamy, cheesy happiness. Picture tender pasta mingling with succulent lobster, sweet crab, and juicy shrimp, all drenched in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. I remember the first time I made this for a special dinner; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. Trust me, it’s perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in. The blend of flavors and textures is simply divine, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s my go-to recipe for impressing friends and family alike!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat, chopped
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
How to Prepare Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese
Preheat and Cook Pasta
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a pot and fill it with water, adding a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil and toss in 8 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—about 7-8 minutes should do the trick. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it firm because it’ll soak up all that cheesy goodness later!
Make the Cheese Sauce
Now, let’s whip up that creamy cheese sauce! In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir it like you’re on a mission until it forms a roux, which takes about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Then, off the heat, fold in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and luscious. I can already smell the magic happening!
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked macaroni with 1 cup each of chopped lobster, crab, and shrimp. Pour that dreamy cheese sauce over the pasta and seafood, and mix everything together well. It’s important to make sure every little elbow macaroni is coated in that cheesy delight—trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Bake the Dish
Transfer your creamy mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top for that perfect crunchy finish. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until you see that top bubbling and turning golden. To check for doneness, poke a fork in and see if it’s hot and gooey throughout. Oh boy, once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before digging in—if you can wait that long! The aroma will be irresistible, and your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Indulgent blend of seafood: The combination of lobster, crab, and shrimp elevates classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level.
- Rich, creamy texture: The velvety cheese sauce hugs each piece of pasta, creating a comforting, satisfying dish.
- Easy to make: Despite its gourmet flair, this dish is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Perfect for special occasions: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner date, this recipe impresses every time.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite seafood or different cheese varieties to make it your own.
- Leftovers? Yes, please! This macaroni and cheese is just as delicious the next day, making it great for meal prep.
- Gluten-free option: With a simple pasta swap, you can enjoy this decadent dish without the gluten.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Seafood: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh lobster, crab, and shrimp. Frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh seafood really shines in this dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, you want that macaroni to be al dente! It’ll keep cooking a bit in the oven, so undercooking it slightly will prevent mushiness.
- Whisk the Sauce Constantly: When you’re making the cheese sauce, keep whisking! This helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky smooth texture.
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining the pasta and cheese sauce, make sure everything is well-coated. No one wants a dry bite of pasta, right?
- Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is my go-to, don’t hesitate to mix in some Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added complexity and flavor.
- Let It Rest: Once it’s out of the oven, let your dish sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set a little, making it easier to serve and enjoy!
- Keep an Eye on the Breadcrumbs: If you notice the breadcrumbs are browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning while the inside finishes cooking.
- Try Different Pasta Shapes: While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or even penne for a fun twist!
With these tips under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly show-stopping mac and cheese that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 650
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
This dish packs a punch with a delightful mix of flavors and textures, and it’s a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of seafood?
Absolutely! One of the best things about my Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese is its flexibility. If you prefer, you can swap in other seafood like scallops or even some flaky white fish. Just make sure whatever you choose is cooked and chopped before adding it to the mix. I’ve even used a mix of seafood leftovers, and it always turns out delicious! Just keep the overall amount similar to maintain that wonderful seafood flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a little different, but it’ll still be creamy and tasty. I’ve tried it both ways and loved the results!
How can I make it gluten-free?
Making this scrumptious dish gluten-free is super easy! Just swap out the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta—there are so many great options available now! Additionally, make sure to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the roux. Always check the labels to ensure everything is gluten-free, and you’ll be good to go. Trust me, no one will even notice the difference!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese, I love pairing it with some fresh sides that complement the rich, creamy flavors of the dish. Here are a few of my go-to suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with crispy, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness, and who doesn’t love a little extra crunch?
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a nice, refreshing contrast. The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons balance out the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with a sprinkle of lemon zest bring a pop of color and a fresh flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the dish. Plus, they’re so easy to make!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide that perfect crunch and acidity to brighten up your meal. I love a vinegar-based dressing for a lighter touch.
- Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned with olive oil and a bit of salt, roasted asparagus adds an elegant touch and pairs wonderfully with seafood.
- Simple Tomato Salad: A salad made from ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze offers a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
Mix and match these sides to create a delightful meal that’s sure to impress! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, these pairings will elevate your dining experience. Enjoy every bite!
For more delicious seafood recipes, check out Lobster Thermidor or Classic Lobster Newburg.
Print
Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and decadent macaroni and cheese dish featuring lobster, crab, and shrimp.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat, chopped
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, lobster, crab, and shrimp in a large bowl.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and seafood mixture, mixing well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Adjust cheese types to your preference.
- Can substitute pasta shapes if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Lobster, Crab, Shrimp, Macaroni and Cheese