Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese

The Ultimate Comfort Food Elevated

If you’re a fan of comfort food with a luxurious twist, then this Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese recipe is for you. Combining tender seafood, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a rich blend of cheeses, this dish is an indulgent masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply craving an elevated dinner, this recipe is the perfect choice.

This creamy, cheesy dish is ideal for seafood lovers who want to take their mac and cheese game to the next level. The combination of succulent shrimp, sweet lobster, and flavorful crab creates a taste experience that’s both decadent and comforting. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it as a main dish for dinner or a standout side at your next gathering.

So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of ultimate seafood mac and cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your guests with a dish that screams luxury without being overly complicated.
  • Packed with Flavor: A medley of cheeses combined with seafood and seasonings create layers of flavor in every bite.
  • Customizable: Not a fan of lobster? Swap it out for scallops or more shrimp. Prefer a spicier dish? Add extra cayenne or Cajun seasoning.
  • Comfort Food Reinvented: This recipe takes traditional mac and cheese and elevates it into a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this show-stopping dish:

Seafood and Pasta

  • 4 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups shrimp (deveined and shell-free)
  • 3–4 lobster tails (pre-cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup crab (pre-cooked and cut into pieces)

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 4 tbsp butter (divided)
  • ½ cup white onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp Italian herb seasoning
  • ½ tbsp cayenne pepper
  • ½ tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp Tabasco sauce

Cheese and Dairy

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (lukewarm)
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (lukewarm)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar (grated)
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup Gouda (grated)
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese (grated)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • A handful of parsley (chopped)

Kitchen Equipment

To make this dish, you’ll need:

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Foil
  • Cheese grater
  • Sharp knife for cutting seafood
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Seafood

  • Heat a large pot over medium-low heat and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
  • Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
  • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add shrimp to the pot and cook for 5 minutes or until they turn pink.
  • Toss in the pre-cooked lobster and crab, heating them through.
  • Season the seafood mixture with cayenne pepper, paprika, Italian herb seasoning, Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  • Remove the seafood mixture and set it aside in a large bowl.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In the same pot, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter.
  • Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook on low heat for 1 minute to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in lukewarm milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
  • Add half and half and evaporated milk, stirring occasionally. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce heat to low and slowly add in sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gouda, and Gruyere cheeses (save Parmesan and ½ cup cheddar for topping). Stir until smooth and creamy.

3. Cook the Pasta

  • While making the sauce, boil the macaroni in salted water until it’s just shy of al dente.
  • Drain the pasta and toss it with 2 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Combine and Bake

  • Add the cooked macaroni and seafood mixture into the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add milk gradually to reach your desired consistency.
  • Stir in Tabasco sauce and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining sharp cheddar, Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley.
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for another 8–10 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy topping.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve hot and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Pair with a crisp white wine or a light green salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips and Variations

  • Seafood Substitutions: Don’t have lobster or crab? Substitute with scallops, mussels, or even canned crab meat for a budget-friendly option.
  • Cheese Swaps: If Gruyere or Gouda isn’t available, use Havarti or Fontina. The key is to choose cheeses that melt well.
  • Spice Level: For a spicier kick, add more Tabasco or a dash of red pepper flakes.
  • Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: This dish freezes well! Wrap portions tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. If microwaving, add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQ

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

2. What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the cheese and seafood perfectly.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. For the creamiest result, grate your own cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese is a true celebration of indulgence. Its creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned seafood, and golden, crunchy topping make it a dish worth savoring. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

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