Crab Mac and Cheese

Crab Mac 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.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz shell pasta or elbow macaroni

Crab Mixture

2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
salt and black pepper to taste
1 lb lump crab meat drained and picked through

Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup half-and-half
1 cup whole milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded

Breadcrumb Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter melted
1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning

Equipment

skillet
Saucepan
Baking Dish

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

Make ahead by assembling the dish without the topping, refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Add topping and bake before serving. Best enjoyed fresh.