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Crab Macaroni and Cheese

A luxurious twist on classic mac and cheese with creamy cheese sauce and tender crab meat for a comforting yet gourmet experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 ounces small shells dry pasta Forms the base of the dish.
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons butter Adds richness and flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning Enhances the crab flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Provides sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds heat.
  • 1 cup lump crab meat Provides seafood flavor.
  • 1 cup half and half Adds creaminess.
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds richness.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Bold flavor for the sauce.
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese Nutty flavor enhancement.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese Creaminess and mild flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for topping) Helps brown the topping.
  • 1 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs Adds crispy texture.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese Optional salty depth.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat, add minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in Old Bay, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then add crab meat and stir to coat.
  5. In another pan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, whisk in flour to create a roux, and cook until golden brown.
  6. Slowly whisk in half and half and milk, cooking until thickened.
  7. Stir in shredded cheeses until melted and smooth, then add cooked pasta and crab mixture, mixing well.
  8. Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  9. In a bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the macaroni and cheese.
  10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  11. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

Use fresh crab meat for best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste and enjoy with a side salad.