How to Make Crab Mac and Cheese
Discover the ultimate Crab Mac and Cheese recipe creamy, cheesy, and easy to make. Perfect for seafood lovers craving comfort food
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp butter for greasing dish
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter for sauce
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz lump crab meat drained and picked over
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs for topping
- 1 tbsp melted butter for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring until smooth and thickened.
- Add cheeses and seasoning: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, cream cheese, and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta and crab: Gently fold the cooked pasta and lump crab meat into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Each serving of Crab Mac and Cheese contains approximately 520 calories. It provides about 29 grams of total fat, including 16 grams of saturated fat. The dish delivers 95 milligrams of cholesterol and around 740 milligrams of sodium. In terms of carbohydrates, you’ll get roughly 38 grams, with 2 grams of dietary fiber and 4 grams of sugar. It also offers a satisfying 27 grams of protein, making it a hearty and well-balanced comfort food option for seafood lovers.