Crab Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Recipe Both Adults and Kids Can't Resist!

crab meat

🥗Healthier: cooked shrimp

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Shrimp provides a similar seafood flavor at a lower cost.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories without sacrificing creaminess.

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is a healthier fat alternative.

Preheat the oven to 375°F and set an oven rack in the middle position. Grease a 9 by 13-inch (3Qt) glass baking dish with butter; set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add the macaroni noodles. Cook the noodles according to the package directions until they are tender but still firm to bite, stirring frequently. Reserve 1/4 cup of the cooking water, then thoroughly drain the pasta.

While the noodles are cooking, heat the milk in a small saucepan, but don't let it boil. In a large pot, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and sprinkle in the flour. Cook over low heat, stirring with a whisk continuously to form a smooth, light-brown roux for about 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually add the warm milk to the flour mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the sauce is thickened and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in Old Bay seasoning, nutmeg, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Off the heat, add the cheese and cream cheese and stir until it is melted and smooth. Place the cooked macaroni in a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir well to combine. Fold in the drained and flaked crab meat to the mac and cheese until well combined. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. In a small bowl, combine melted butter and Panko bread crumbs, and Old Bay seasoning.

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top of the macaroni mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the macaroni is browned on top. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens