Seafood Mac with Colby Jack Cheese
If comfort food had a touch of coastal luxury, it would be this Seafood Mac with Colby Jack Cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender seafood, this dish combines the warmth of classic macaroni and cheese with the irresistible flavors of the ocean. It’s a hearty, indulgent meal that’s sure to impress, whether served at a family gathering, date night, or special weekend dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A gourmet twist on traditional mac and cheese
- Smooth, creamy Colby Jack sauce with a mild, buttery flavor
- Perfectly seasoned seafood that blends beautifully with the pasta
- Easy to make and ready in under an hour
- Elegant enough for guests, yet comforting for weeknights
Time Taken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Calcium: 35% DV
(Values vary based on seafood and cheese used.)
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or shell pasta)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Seafood:
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb lump crab meat or imitation crab
- ½ lb scallops or crawfish tails (optional mix)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning or Old Bay
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring salted water to a boil, cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside. - Prepare the seafood:
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the shrimp, crab, and scallops with seasoning and lemon juice until just cooked. Remove from heat and set aside. - Make the cheese sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth. - Add the cheese:
Stir in Colby Jack and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Combine:
Add cooked pasta and seafood to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated. - Optional bake:
Pour into a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and bubbly. - Serve hot:
Garnish with chopped parsley, extra cheese, or a squeeze of lemon.
You Must Know
- Do not overcook the seafood, it continues cooking in the sauce.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt. Pre-shredded cheese may result in a grainy sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or seafood stock to the sauce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Colby Jack cheese: Substitute with Monterey Jack, mild cheddar, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.
- Seafood: Use your favorite combination; shrimp, lobster, crab, crawfish, or scallops.
- Dairy: Swap cream for evaporated milk for a lighter version.
- Seasoning: Use Cajun, Creole, or lemon pepper for different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich, creamy seafood mac as a main course with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with garlic bread, grilled asparagus, or buttery cornbread. For an elevated touch, sprinkle a little smoked paprika or drizzle with truffle oil before serving.
Cultural and Historical Context
Seafood mac and cheese is a Southern-inspired comfort dish that merges coastal flavors with classic American soul food. Colby Jack cheese, known for its smooth melting quality and mild taste, adds a creamy balance that complements rich seafood flavors. This dish is a celebration of both comfort and sophistication, a true fusion of land and sea.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Summer: Use lighter seafood like shrimp and crab, and add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Fall/Winter: Incorporate richer cheeses and bake with a breadcrumb crust for a cozy, hearty version.
- Spring: Add peas, spinach, or asparagus for a fresh pop of color.
Success Stories
“My family couldn’t stop eating this, it tasted like restaurant-quality seafood mac!”
“I made it with lobster tails for a dinner party, and everyone was blown away.”
“The Colby Jack cheese made it extra creamy and flavorful will definitely make again!”
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble the mac and cheese in a casserole dish (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
Pro Tips
- Use a mix of seafood for complex flavor.
- Toast breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for subtle heat.
- Avoid boiling after adding cheese; it can curdle the sauce.
Chef’s Special Tips
- Add lobster stock or crab base to the sauce for rich seafood depth.
- Mix a little cream cheese into the sauce for extra smoothness.
- Finish with a torch-seared top layer of cheese for a golden crust.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Mac with Colby Jack Cheese is the perfect dish for anyone who loves rich, creamy comfort food with a touch of elegance. The blend of buttery cheese sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful seafood creates a harmony that’s indulgent yet comforting. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, a little fancy, a lot of flavor, and pure comfort in every bite.