Best 2 Crab Macaroni And Cheese Recipes

Dive into a culinary journey where creamy cheese and succulent crab come together in perfect harmony, resulting in the ultimate comfort food: crab macaroni and cheese. This delectable dish combines the richness of melted cheese, the tender texture of macaroni, and the delicate sweetness of crab, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prefer a classic preparation or a modern twist, this article will guide you through the culinary techniques and ingredient choices that will help you craft the best crab macaroni and cheese recipe, taking your taste buds on a delightful adventure.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CRAB MACARONI AND CHEESE

Crab Macaroni and Cheese image

Provided by Alex Guarnaschelli

Time 45m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

2 tablespoons sea salt
1 pound elbow macaroni
2 cups chardonnay
3 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Pinch sea salt
3 cups grated Swiss cheese
1/2 cup grated sharp Cheddar
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco
1 pound lump crabmeat, picked of any shell bits
1 cup panko breadcrumbs, toasted
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
For the pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts water and the salt to a rolling boil. It should taste like seawater. Stir in the macaroni and cook but leave quite firm, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking liquid.
For the sauce: In a medium pot, reduce the wine over medium heat until the liquid measures about 1/2 cup, 5 to 8 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the cream, mustard and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Swiss cheese, Cheddar, Parmesan, Worcestershire and hot sauce and warm until the cheese melts, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add the macaroni to the cream mixture and stir gently to blend. Allow the macaroni to rest on the stove so the pasta absorbs the flavors, 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer half of the macaroni to a 9-by-13-inch oven-proof baking dish, sprinkle with half of the crab in an even layer. Gently layer on the remaining macaroni, and then another layer of crab.
For the topping: In a medium bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley and Swiss cheese. Top the pasta with the breadcrumbs and bake until browned and hot, 15 to 20 minutes.

CRAB BISQUE MACARONI AND CHEESE

Crab Bisque Macaroni and Cheese image

I found this on the Wisconsin Dairy Board. I'm on a low carb diet so this is a no-no for now. I know just what I'm having when I go on my next planned "cheat." Someone make this quick so I can live vicariously through your review!

Provided by yooper

Categories Crab

Time 40m

Yield 10 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package penne pasta, cooked,drained
4 tablespoons butter, divided
1 medium onion, chopped
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can chicken broth
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded,divided (8 ounces)
2 cups monterey jack cheese, shredded,divided (8 ounces)
1 (16 ounce) can lump crabmeat, drained
1/4 cup sherry wine

Steps:

Preheat broiler.
In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter, until sizzling.
Add onion, saute over medium heat 3 minutes or until tender.
Add remaining 3 tablespoons butter.
When butter is sizzling, whisk in flour.
Cook, stirring occasionally, 12 minutes or until mixture is golden brown.
Over medium heat, gradually whisk milk and chicken broth into flour-butter mixture, cook, stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes or until mixture is thick and smooth.
Stir in tomatoes, rosemary, salt and pepper.
Reduce heat and add 1 cup each of the Monterey jack and cheddar cheese.
Cook, stirring occasionally for 3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Stir in crabmeat and sherry.
Remove from heat.
Place drained, cooked pasta in a 3-quart baking dish; pour cheese mixture over pasta and mix well.
Sprinkle with mixture of remaining Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Broil about 5 inches from heat for 5-8 minutes or until cheese is bubbling.
Cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh crab, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy macaroni are essential for a delicious crab macaroni and cheese.
Don't overcook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, but be careful not to overcook it. Otherwise, it will become mushy and lose its texture.
Use a roux to thicken the sauce: A roux is a mixture of butter and flour that is used to thicken sauces. It helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce that will coat the macaroni and crab perfectly.
Add seasonings to taste: Season the macaroni and cheese with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
Top with bread crumbs or Parmesan cheese: Before baking, top the macaroni and cheese with bread crumbs or Parmesan cheese for a golden brown and crispy crust.
Let the macaroni and cheese rest before serving: After baking, let the macaroni and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the macaroni and cheese to set.

Conclusion:

Crab macaroni and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender macaroni, and succulent crab, it's sure to be a hit with everyone at your table. Follow these tips to make the best crab macaroni and cheese you've ever tasted.