Description
A comforting blend of pasta, creamy cheese, and fresh seafood that feels like a special treat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi
- 1 Tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or a blend of paprika and a pinch of cayenne)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (or Swiss)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb (225 g) lump crab meat (or imitation crab)
- 1/2 lb (225 g) scallops, small or halved if large
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or butter
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 Tbsp melted butter (optional)
- 2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and scallops, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Stir in lump crab meat, season lightly with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in warmed milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper; simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and seafood to cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
- (Optional) Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mixture to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan; sprinkle over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Allow the seafood to sear properly for the best flavor. Use high-quality ingredients for optimal taste.