What goes with seafood mac and cheese?

Great question! Because seafood mac and cheese is rich and savory, it's best paired with sides that add freshness, crunch, or acidity. Think garlic-roasted broccoli , steamed asparagus with lemon , or a crisp Caesar salad . These sides cut through the creaminess and balance the dish. Looking for something more Southern-inspired? Try buttery cornbread or coleslaw with apples . The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the cheese and seafood.

Is the Seafood Mac and Cheese Margaritaville version worth replicating?

Yes—if you enjoy a more tropical twist on traditional mac and cheese. The Seafood Mac and Cheese Margaritaville version often includes shrimp and lobster, a white cheddar base, and tropical seasoning blends. Our recipe brings a similar flavor but with a richer, more customizable sauce, making it perfect for home cooks who want to control the ingredients.

Can I use both lobster and shrimp in seafood mac and cheese?

Absolutely! In fact, lobster and shrimp mac and cheese is one of the most searched-for combos. Lobster adds buttery richness, while shrimp brings juicy, tender texture. Use about ½ pound of each for the perfect balance, and mix them into your cheese sauce off the heat to avoid overcooking. Many restaurants pair these proteins together for a gourmet-style mac—and now you can too at home.

Seafood Mac & Cheese: The Best Ever Creamy Recipe You’ll Love [2025]

Name: Seafood Mac & Cheese: The Best Ever Creamy Recipe You’ll Love [2025]
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk (warm); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped; 1/2 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained); 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping); 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Description

Seafood Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food upgrade! Creamy, cheesy pasta is loaded with tender shrimp, flaky crab, and buttery seasoning, then baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and savory.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth. Cook, stirring often, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Old Bay, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
Gently fold in cooked pasta, shrimp, and crab until well combined.
Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if using.
Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time, or sauté raw shrimp before adding.
Add scallops or lobster for a more luxurious version.
Try smoked gouda or fontina for a more complex cheese flavor.
This dish can be made ahead and baked just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 710mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 160mg