LOBSTER, CRAB AND SHRIMP MACARONI AND CHEESE

Ingredients

• 1 lb. elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter divided
• 1/2 cup flour
• 3 cups whole milk, room temp
• 1 cup heavy cream, room temp
• 4 cups grated Gruyere cheese
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt to taste
• Fresh ground pepper
• 1 1/2 lb. A mixture of crab, lobster, and shrimp
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Use cooking spray to coat a 2-quart baking pan. Butter can also be used to lightly coat the dish.
3. Follow the instructions on the package to cook the pasta until it is al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse it with cool water, and then set it aside.

– How to Make the roux:

1. Melt 6 Tbsp. Place 6 Tbsp. butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Mix the flour with the water and continue to whisk until well combined. This should take about 30 seconds.
3. Slowly add the milk, and cream, and whisk constantly until smooth. Reduce heat to low.

– How to make the Cheese Sauce:

1. Mix the shredded cheeses one at a time into the roux. Stir to combine between each addition.
2. Salt and pepper to your liking
3. Turn off the heat

– Here is how to Bake the Mac and Cheese:

1. Mix the seafood and cooked pasta together in the cheese sauce.
2. Place the mixture in the prepared baking dish.
3. The remaining 2 Tbsp. butter, melt it. Mix the butter with the panko.
4. Sprinkle the cheese on top.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until the seafood mac cheese is hot through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
6. Serve immediately