Crab Mac and Cheese

Posted by Percival Langley January 10, 2024
Crab Mac and Cheese

Background and History

Crab Mac and Cheese is a decadent fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese with the delightful addition of succulent crab meat. Originating as a coastal twist on the classic comfort food, this dish beautifully combines the richness of cheese with the sweetness of crab, creating a luxurious and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Elbow Macaroni

8 ounces, cooked al dente.

Lump Crab Meat

1 pound, fresh or canned.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

2 cups, shredded.

Gruyere Cheese

1 cup, shredded.

Mozzarella Cheese

1/2 cup, shredded.

Whole Milk

2 cups.

Unsalted Butter

1/4 cup.

All-Purpose Flour

1/4 cup.

Dijon Mustard

1 tablespoon.

Paprika

1/2 teaspoon.

Salt and Black Pepper

To taste.

Breadcrumbs

1/2 cup, for topping.

Fresh Parsley

Chopped, for garnish.

Serves

6-8

Time

Preparation Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

30 minutes

Total Time

Approximately 45 minutes

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Macaroni

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while whisking constantly.

Stir in Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Add shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Combine with Crab and Macaroni

Fold in the lump crab meat and cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the crab and macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.

Top with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

(Values may vary based on specific ingredients and variations)

Calories: ~400 per serving

Protein: ~20g

Fat: ~15g

Carbohydrates: ~40g

Notes

Experiment with different cheese combinations for varied flavors.

Fresh crab meat provides the best flavor, but canned crab works well too.

Customize with additional seasonings like Old Bay for a seafood twist.

Allergy Warning

Be cautious of shellfish allergies, especially when using crab.

Check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially in pre-packaged cheese.

Adjust the recipe to accommodate specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

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Percival Langley, the creative force behind this site, holds the unique and delectable title of Gourmet Expert. With a passion for elevating the culinary experiences of our furry companions, Percival shares delightful and nutritious recipes that go beyond the ordinary. His site is a go-to resource for pet owners seeking to pamper their pets with gourmet treats and meals. Percival's expertise in crafting delicious and health-conscious pet cuisine is evident in the tasteful and innovative content he curates. For those who believe in treating their pets to a culinary adventure, Percival Langley's site is a flavorful journey into the world of gourmet pet delights.