Decadent Crab Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni (8 ounces)
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup)
• Milk (3 cups)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
• Gruyere cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Crab meat (8 ounces, cooked and picked)
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly, and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese until fully melted and smooth. Fold in the cooked crab meat and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
10. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your decadent dish!