SCALLOP MAC & CHEESE

Scallop Mac & Cheese image

A nice way to dress up this favorite feel-good food is to add scallops. They transform mac and cheese into a sophisticated dish.-Laurie Lufkin, Essex, Massachusetts

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 5 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
1/2 cup butter, divided
1 cup French bread baguette crumbs
1 pound bay scallops
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 small onion, chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
2 tablespoons sherry or chicken broth
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Steps:

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add bread crumbs; cook and stir until lightly toasted., In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add scallops; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until firm and opaque. Remove and keep warm. Melt remaining butter in the pan; add mushrooms and onion. Cook and stir until tender. Stir in the flour, thyme, salt and pepper until blended., Gradually add the milk, wine and sherry. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheeses until melted. Drain pasta; stir pasta and scallops into sauce., Divide among five 10-oz. ramekins or custard cups. Sprinkle with bread crumbs. Place ramekins on a baking sheet. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Spoon onto plates if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 704 calories, Fat 37g fat (22g saturated fat), Cholesterol 132mg cholesterol, Sodium 696mg sodium, Carbohydrate 55g carbohydrate (8g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 38g protein.