There’s just something magical about combining rich, creamy macaroni and cheese with the sweet, succulent flavors of seafood. This Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese is truly a showstopper! I still remember the first time I had it at a family gathering—everyone gathered around the table, and the first bite was pure bliss! The creamy cheese sauce enveloping the tender pasta and the fresh seafood made my taste buds dance. It’s my go-to dish for special occasions and cozy nights in, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to indulge in this luxurious twist on a classic comfort food!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 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 preheating to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a pot and fill it with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil and toss in your elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually about 7-8 minutes. To check if it’s ready, just take a piece out and taste it! You want it firm but not crunchy. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while we whip up that luscious cheese sauce.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a roux—this will thicken your sauce. Cook this mixture for about a minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Now, gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until it’s smooth and begins to thicken. This usually takes around 3-5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy goodness. Oh, that smell is heavenly!
Combine Ingredients
Now, let’s bring this dish together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chopped lobster, crab, and shrimp. Pour that dreamy cheese sauce over the pasta and seafood, making sure everything is well-coated. It’s important to mix gently so you don’t break up the seafood too much. Transfer this delightful mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for that lovely crunchy finish!
Bake to Perfection
It’s time for the magic to happen in the oven! Bake your macaroni and cheese for about 25-30 minutes, or until you see it bubbling and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, look for that bubbly goodness and give it a gentle shake—if it doesn’t jiggle too much, you’re good to go! Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before digging in. Trust me, that little wait will be worth it!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note, my fellow food lovers! The nutritional information provided here is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Things like the type of seafood or cheese can really change the numbers! So, if you’re tracking your intake, I recommend calculating the nutrition based on your exact ingredients. After all, cooking is all about making it personal and enjoying every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a luxurious twist on classic macaroni and cheese that’s sure to impress your guests.
- The combination of lobster, crab, and shrimp creates indulgent flavors that elevate the dish to a whole new level.
- This recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- The creamy cheese sauce wraps around every piece of pasta and seafood, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- It’s versatile—feel free to switch up the seafood or cheese based on your preferences!
- It’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Tips for Success
To really make this Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t skimp on the seafood—fresh is best, so if you can get your hands on it, do! You can also mix up the cheese; try adding Gruyère or mozzarella for extra flavor and creaminess. If you’re in a hurry, feel free to use pre-cooked seafood to save time. When it comes to baking, keep an eye on it—every oven is a bit different, so check for that golden top a few minutes early. And remember, letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Variations of Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese
If you want to get a little creative with this dish, there are so many fun ways to switch it up! For seafood lovers, why not try adding scallops or even some smoked salmon for a unique twist? You could also mix in some tender chunks of crab cakes for an extra layer of flavor. When it comes to cheese, feel free to experiment—adding a bit of fontina or pepper jack can give it a delightful kick! And for a healthier spin, toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrients. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so special!
Serving Suggestions
This Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese is a treat on its own, but pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad can really elevate your meal! I love serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. You could also enjoy it with garlic bread or roasted asparagus for a delightful balance. Trust me, these sides complement the rich flavors perfectly and make for a satisfying dinner experience!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of this delicious Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to keep the flavors fresh! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover it with foil to prevent the top from browning too much. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Just be careful not to overheat, or it might dry out! Enjoy the creamy goodness again!
For more delicious seafood recipes, check out this creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque!
Print
Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese Bliss Unleashed
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- 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.
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