Ooey Gooey Crab Mac & Cheese Casserole

MATTY MATHESON

Video Stats

Channel: MATTY MATHESON
Host: MATTY MATHESON
Published: Jul 10, 2025
Views: 157.9k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 30 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 4

Overview

The Ooey Gooey Crab Mac & Cheese Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that many of us grew up loving. The addition of lump crab elevates this dish, transforming it from a simple mac and cheese into a luxurious meal that feels special. The creamy cheese sauce, made with a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creates a rich and satisfying base that envelops the pasta perfectly.

The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. The use of panko breadcrumbs on top not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall texture of the dish. As it bakes, the cheese melts beautifully, creating that ooey-gooey consistency that everyone craves in a mac and cheese.

This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, and it’s sure to impress guests with its gourmet flair. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s a comforting meal that brings back fond memories of childhood dinners. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a must-try for any mac and cheese lover.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
02:39

Start with a quarter stick of butter in a pan.

2
04:39

Add milk to the mixture.

3
09:48

Add lump crab to the mixture.

10:02

Tip: If you don't like crab or tuna, you can substitute with ground pork or ground beef.

4
10:29

Stir the mixture to combine the ingredients.

5
11:00

Add more milk to loosen the mixture.

6
11:15

Add sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the mixture.

7
12:00

Prepare panko breadcrumbs for topping.

12:09

Tip: Preheat the oven to 400°F for even baking.

8
12:23

Bake in a preheated oven for 45 minutes.

9
13:15

Serve the baked crab mac and cheese casserole.

13:31

Tip: Adding extra milk can improve the creaminess of the dish.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Milk500ml
Butter56g
Pasta400g
Panko Breadcrumbs100g
Onion1
Salt1 tsp
Pepper1 tsp
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Almond Milk

Ingredient: Shellfish

    → Substitution: Chicken

Nutrition

Calories
600
kcal per serving
Protein
25
per serving
Carbs
45
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Using lump crab in mac and cheese adds a rich seafood flavor and elevates the dish.
  • Baked mac and cheese can be customized with various cheeses and toppings for added texture.
  • Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy macaroni.
  • This dish is a nostalgic take on a childhood favorite, combining comfort food with gourmet ingredients.