Crab Macaroni and Cheese – Ultra Creamy Seafood Mac & Cheese Recipe
Crab Macaroni and Cheese 🦀🧀 is the kind of dish that instantly feels special. Tender pasta is coated in a rich, silky cheese sauce, generously studded with juicy pieces of crab, then finished with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping that adds just the right amount of crunch.
This is not your everyday mac and cheese. It is elevated, indulgent, and designed for moments when you want something comforting yet impressive whether served as a luxurious side dish or enjoyed as the main attraction.
Baked until bubbling and lightly crisp on top, this homemade crab mac and cheese delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and satisfying textures in every bite.
Why This Crab Mac and Cheese Stands Out
What makes this recipe truly memorable is the contrast of textures and flavors. Soft pasta and delicate crab meat meet a deeply flavorful cheese sauce, while the breadcrumb topping adds a crisp finish that brings everything together.
It is the kind of dish that feels right at home on a holiday table Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve or for an intimate dinner when you want to cook something that feels a little indulgent and thoughtful.
While it may not be designed for a child’s birthday party, it is ideal for grown-up gatherings, romantic dinners at home, or anytime you want comfort food with a refined twist.
Ingredients Overview
Pasta
Small or medium pasta shapes work best. Shells are ideal because they capture the creamy sauce, but elbow macaroni, rigatoni, or ziti are all excellent alternatives.
Crab Mixture
Butter, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and generous amounts of crab meat create a warm, aromatic base that enhances the seafood flavor without overpowering it.
Creamy Cheese Sauce
A classic roux made with butter and flour forms the foundation of the sauce, enriched with half-and-half and whole milk for a smooth, luxurious texture.
Cheese Blend
A combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack provides depth, creaminess, and balanced flavor. Using more than one cheese ensures richness without heaviness.
Breadcrumb Topping
Seasoned breadcrumbs or panko tossed with melted butter and Old Bay seasoning create a crisp, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Choosing the Right Crab Meat
The quality of crab meat plays a major role in the final result:
- Fresh lump crab meat offers the best flavor and texture, with large, tender pieces that remain intact.
- Canned crab meat is a convenient and budget-friendly option. Be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Imitation crab meat can also be used if needed. While it is not true crab, it works surprisingly well in a creamy pasta dish when shredded finely.
For an extra-luxurious variation, lobster meat can be substituted for crab.
How to Make Crab Macaroni and Cheese
- Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta in well-salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to soften while baking. - Prepare the Crab Mixture
Melt butter in a skillet, add garlic and seasonings, then gently warm the crab meat just until coated and fragrant. Set aside. - Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly, until thickened. Add the cheeses and stir until smooth and fully melted. - Combine
Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, then gently mix in the crab mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - Assemble and Top
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and seasoning, then sprinkle evenly over the top. - Bake
Bake until the topping is golden and the edges are bubbling. Let rest briefly before serving.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This crab mac and cheese can be assembled in advance up to the point before adding the breadcrumb topping. Once cooled, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 48 hours.
Before baking, allow the dish to come to room temperature, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, though the dish is best enjoyed fresh when the sauce is creamy and the topping is crisp.
Final Thoughts
Crab Macaroni and Cheese is comfort food taken to the next level. Creamy, rich, and generously filled with crab, it is the kind of recipe that turns a simple meal into a memorable one. Whether served as a standout side or enjoyed as the main course, this dish delivers warmth, indulgence, and undeniable elegance in every bite.
Crab Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet, add garlic and seasonings, then gently stir in crab meat until warmed through. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until thickened. Stir in cheeses until melted.
- Fold the pasta into the cheese sauce, then gently mix in the crab mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and Old Bay, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Let rest before serving.
Notes
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