Mac n Cheese lends itself beautifully to adding other ingredients to it’s soft and cheesy goodness. I love the comfort of this classic Mac n Cheese with the decadence of seafood. I often make this on a Saturday evening because it feels special but friendly. I use cooked prawns and crab which only need to be added at the last minute to warm through. This way it stays soft and delicate. Just before serving I sprinkle the dish with my Garlic and Herbs Breadcrumbs to add a flavour and crunch boost.

Choose the cheeses that you love for this cheesy, seafood comfort food

INGREDIENTS
300g macaroni
40g butter
40g plain flour
550ml milk
100g white cheddar
75g mozzarella
375g cooked prawn (defrosted)
2 tins of drained crab meat – approx. 200g
juice of 1/2 lemon
salt and pepper

• Get all your ingredients ready and you’ll be able to make the sauce whilst the pasta cooks in salted water.
• Melt the butter then add the flour and use a spatula to make a smooth paste. Allow to cook on a medium heat until pale then add the milk and whisk vigorously. You should get a smooth sauce.
• Keep stirring with a spatula whilst the sauce thickens then after a few minutes add the cheese and whisk until the sauce is silky smooth not stringy.

• Add the cold seafood to the drained, hot pasta then pour over the cheese sauce and stir carefully. Grind over with pepper if desired.
• Add the lemon juice, give it another stir then pour into an oven dish.
• Put the dish under a grill for 10 minutes until it colours up a little.
• Finish with some garlic and herb breadcrumbs for extra crunch and flavour boost.