Crab Macaroni Cheese: 5 Steps to Gourmet Comfort Food

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Crab Macaroni Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that brings together big pieces of juicy crab and tender pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. This sensational dish is topped with crispy breadcrumbs, making it a perfect centerpiece for any holiday table or a cozy family dinner. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and once you try this recipe, you won’t want to go back to regular mac and cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Crab Macaroni Cheese

This Crab Macaroni Cheese is not just any mac and cheese—it’s a luxurious meal that combines a variety of cheeses and the delicate flavor of crab meat. Here’s why you will love it:

Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Great for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Easy to customize with different seafood or cheese variations.
Perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Can be made ahead of time for convenience.
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors with Seafood Macaroni and Cheese or a Creamy Crab Pasta Bake.
Difficulty level is easy, making it accessible for any home cook.
American cuisine with a touch of gourmet flair that fits various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Crab Macaroni Cheese

Gather these items:

1 pound small shells dry pasta
3 tablespoons butter
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely pressed or minced
1-2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pound lump crab meat
5 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups half-and-half
1 cup whole milk
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
8 ounces shredded gruyere cheese
8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
1/2-1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
Salt optional to taste
Pepper optional to taste
1/4-1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese optional

How to Make Crab Macaroni Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat oven to 375F and prepare a baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 3: Add butter to a skillet over medium high heat to melt. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Old Bay, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Add crab meat and stir to coat in the mixture. Heat for 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
Step 6: Add butter to another skillet over medium heat to melt.
Step 7: Add flour and whisk until lightly golden brown, about 60-90 seconds.
Step 8: Slowly add half-and-half and milk while whisking continuously. Cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 9: Add cheeses and whisk until melted and smooth.
Step 10: Add cooked pasta to cheese sauce and stir well.
Step 11: Add crab mixture and combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 12: Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Step 13: Optionally, sprinkle additional cheese on top.
Step 14: Melt butter in a bowl, add breadcrumbs and Old Bay, and mix to coat.
Step 15: Optionally, add salt, pepper, and Parmesan to the breadcrumbs.
Step 16: Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over mac and cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 17: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Allow to cool slightly and serve.

Crab Macaroni Cheese: 5 Steps to Gourmet Comfort Food - Crab Macaroni Cheese - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crab Macaroni Cheese

Keep these in mind:

Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking.
Using a mix of cheeses enhances the flavor, but feel free to use your favorites.
If you want a spicier kick, add more Old Bay or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
You can prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving. (See notes for make-ahead directions.)

Best Ways to Serve Crab Macaroni Cheese

This delightful dish can stand alone as a main course or serve as an elegant side dish. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to complement the rich flavors. For a special occasion, consider serving it alongside Lobster and Crab Macaroni Cheese for an indulgent feast.

How to Store and Reheat Crab Macaroni Cheese

To store, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crab Macaroni Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Crab Macaroni Cheese?

The secret lies in the balance of cheeses and the addition of Old Bay seasoning, which enhances the crab’s natural flavor. A creamy sauce and the right baking time ensure a perfect texture.

Can I make Crab Macaroni Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crab Macaroni Cheese?

To avoid a dry mac and cheese, ensure your cheese sauce is creamy before mixing in the pasta. Also, keep an eye on the baking time to prevent over-baking, which can dry it out.

Variations of Crab Macaroni Cheese You Can Try

Experiment with different variations to keep things interesting. Consider adding Crab Macaroni Cheese with Panko Topping for a crunch, or try it with Crab and Cheese Pasta Casserole style. You can also swap out crab for shrimp for a delightful twist!