🦐🧀 Seafood Mac & Cheese Bake 🍤🔥

Description:
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to golden perfection and loaded with succulent shrimp. This Seafood Mac & Cheese Bake is comfort food with a luxurious seafood twist—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) macaroni pasta

• Salt, for boiling water

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Seafood:

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for crunch)

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.

2. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth.

4. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes.

5. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.

6. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

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