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Crab Mac And Cheese

Crab Mac And Cheese - Quick Delicious Meals

First off, let me just say this: there’s nothing quite like gathering around a table filled with delicious food and good company. This is where laughter flows, stories get told, and memories are created. 
When I think about crab mac and cheese, my mind immediately drifts to a bright summer evening. Picture this: a refreshing salad made with crisp greens, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette sits proudly next to creamy, indulgent crab mac and cheese. 
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 535
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked crab meat, plus extra for garnish if desired
  • 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour
  • 1 pound uncooked spiral pasta
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine kosher salt
  • 4 cups sharp shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 2 1/2 cups filtered water
  • 2 tablespoons finely sliced fresh chives
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
  1. Start by cooking the pasta. Boil water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling like a small hot spring, add a good pinch of salt and the uncooked spiral pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Craft the Cheese Sauce
  1. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour, whisking constantly to create a roux. 
    Keep it moving for about 1–2 minutes until it starts to smell nutty. Slowly add the whole milk while continuing to whisk. Increase the heat, and let the mixture bubble slightly.
    Now, stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and Dijon mustard. Gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. This should resemble a cloud of cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Combine with Crab and Pasta
  1. Fold in the cooked crab meat and pasta gently. Make sure everything is coated in that luscious cheese sauce. It might be a bit heavy, but isn't that the point?
Step 4: Transfer and Top
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a baking dish with cooking spray and transfer the mixture into it. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and combine with the panko bread crumbs. Sprinkle the mixture on top for added crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Your kitchen will smell like absolute bliss, and I guarantee you’ll want to dive right in!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
  1. Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chives on top for garnish. This adds color and brightness to an already delicious dish.

Notes

  • Choose Quality Crab: For the best flavor, opt for fresh crab or lump crab meat.
  • Adjust Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a unique twist.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.
  • Add Spice: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Instead of panko, try crushed Ritz crackers for a different texture.