Prep Seafood: Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp if necessary. Remove any shells or tails from all seafood. Rinse the mixed seafood under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Sauté Seafood: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add the mixed seafood to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the seafood is just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook later in the oven. Remove the seafood from the skillet and set it aside.
Cooking the Pasta
Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
Make Roux: In the same pot used for cooking the pasta, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, forming a roux.
Thicken Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Melt Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season Sauce: Season the cheese sauce with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
Combining the Seafood, Pasta, and Cheese Sauce
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood, cooked pasta, and the prepared cheese sauce. Gently fold the ingredients together until they are well coated with the cheese sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Baking the Seafood Mac and Cheese
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Cool Slightly: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Serving and Enjoying
Garnish: Garnish the Seafood Mac and Cheese with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve: Serve the dish hot and savor the delightful combination of tender seafood, al dente pasta, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s a truly indulgent treat that will leave you craving more.
