Seafood Mac and Cheese

 

Seafood Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

For the pasta:

12 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)

1 tbsp butter (for tossing)

For the cheese sauce:

2 tbsp butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp almond flour (or regular flour if not low-carb)

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded gruyère (or gouda)

1/2 cup shredded parmesan

For the seafood:

1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

1/2 lb lump crab meat (or substitute with scallops or lobster)

1 tbsp butter (for cooking)

1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)

For the topping:

1/2 cup crushed pork rinds (for keto) or panko breadcrumbs

1 tbsp melted butter

1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or gruyère)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the seafood: In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and cook the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Add the crab meat and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in almond flour and cook for 1 minute.

4. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and almond milk. Add mustard, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Cook until slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes).

5. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

6. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and seafood to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

7. Prepare the topping: Mix crushed pork rinds or panko with melted butter and shredded cheese.

8. Bake (optional): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle topping evenly, and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Would you like any adjustments, like a different seafood mix or a spicier version?