Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Seafood:
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1/2 lb lobster tail (cooked and chopped into chunks)
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1/2 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
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1/2 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
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1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
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1 tbsp butter
For the Mac and Cheese:
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1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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3 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for an extra creamy texture)
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1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
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1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for a little smoky flavor)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
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Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seafood:
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the lobster and crab meat, cooking for about 2-3 minutes just to warm them up. (If you’re using pre-cooked lobster and crab, you’re just heating them through.)
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Remove the seafood from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In the same large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
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Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux (a smooth paste). This will help thicken the sauce.
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Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
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Season with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Combine the Pasta and Seafood:
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Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the noodles completely.
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Gently fold in the shrimp, lobster, and crab meat into the macaroni and cheese. Be careful not to break up the delicate seafood too much.
5. Bake (Optional for Crispy Top):
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If you like a crispy topping, transfer the seafood mac and cheese to a greased baking dish (a 9×13 dish works well).
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Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. You can also broil it for the last 2-3 minutes to get an extra crispy finish.
6. Garnish and Serve:
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Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
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Serve hot, and enjoy the decadent flavors of this Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese!
Serving Suggestions:
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Side Salad: Pair it with a light, tangy green salad (like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette) to balance the richness.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty loaf for dipping into the creamy sauce.
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Wine Pairing: A crisp, chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood and creamy cheese perfectly.
Tips:
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Seafood Options: You can substitute the lobster, crab, and shrimp with other seafood like scallops or even cooked salmon, depending on what you prefer or have available.
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Cheese Variety: If you can’t find Gruyère, you can use other cheeses like fontina, Monterey Jack, or even Mozzarella for a milder flavor.
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Extra Creaminess: For an even richer, creamier mac and cheese, you can replace part of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
This Lobster, Crab, and Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese is a luxurious twist on a beloved comfort food that’s perfect for a special occasion or just a treat-yourself dinner. Let me know how it turns out or if you want more variations! Enjoy!