Here’s a delicious Fish Mac and Cheese recipe that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender, flaky fish for a comforting yet elevated twist on classic mac and cheese.
Fish Mac and Cheese
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 40 mins
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
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8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni (or small pasta shells)
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1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia work well)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella (for meltiness)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta & Fish:
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Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (1-2 mins less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
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Meanwhile, season fish with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook fish for 3-4 mins per side until flaky. Remove, let cool slightly, then flake into chunks.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux (1 min).
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Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring, until slightly thickened (~5 mins).
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Reduce heat, then stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted.
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Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Combine & Assemble:
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In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and flaked fish.
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Transfer to a greased baking dish (or keep in the pot if oven-safe).
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Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs (and extra Parmesan if desired).
4. Bake (Optional for Crispy Top):
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Broil in the oven for 3-5 mins until golden and bubbly (or bake at 375°F/190°C for 10-15 mins).
5. Serve:
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Garnish with fresh parsley and extra black pepper.
Tips:
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For extra richness: Add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
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Fish alternatives: Use cooked shrimp, crab, or canned tuna in a pinch.
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No oven? Skip broiling—just stir breadcrumbs into the pasta for crunch.
This Fish Mac and Cheese is creamy, savory, and packed with protein—perfect for seafood lovers! Let me know if you’d like any tweaks. 😊