Crab Pasta Bake : Creamy and Comforting Meal

When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing hits the spot quite like a Crab Pasta Bake.
With tender pasta, sweet crab meat, a rich, cheesy sauce, and a golden crispy topping, this dish brings the warmth of home-cooked comfort — with a touch of coastal flavor. 🌊

Growing up, my grandmother loved making seafood casseroles for family gatherings, and this crab pasta bake is a recipe inspired by her — simple, hearty, and packed with love. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a relaxed summer night, this baked pasta dish will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Crab Pasta Bake

🦀 Loaded with Real Crab: Sweet, succulent, and luxurious.
🧀 Ultra Creamy Sauce: Rich cheese sauce coats every bite.
🔥 Crispy Topping: Golden breadcrumbs for perfect texture.
🎉 Family Favorite: Crowd-pleasing and great for gatherings.
🍽️ Easy to Make: Simple, straightforward steps!

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 12 oz lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for pasta
• Medium saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta until just al dente (it will continue cooking in the oven).
• Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
• Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
• Gradually whisk in milk and cream.
• Cook, whisking constantly, until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
• Stir in mozzarella, parmesan, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
• Cook until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Tip: Don’t let the sauce boil too hard — gentle heat ensures a silky texture!

3. Combine Pasta, Crab, and Sauce

• In a large bowl, gently combine cooked pasta, crab meat, and the cheese sauce.
• Mix just until everything is coated.

4. Assemble the Bake

• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
• Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

5. Bake

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
• Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

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Tips for the Best Crab Pasta Bake

• Use Good Quality Crab: Fresh or high-quality canned lump crab makes a big difference.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep it just al dente before baking.
• Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce if you love heat.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the bake earlier in the day and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve!

Creative Variations

• Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake: Add cooked shrimp for a seafood medley.
• Spicy Cajun Crab Bake: Replace Old Bay with Cajun seasoning.
• Extra Cheesy: Add sharp cheddar or Gruyère to the cheese sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520 kcal
Carbohydrates	34 g
Protein	28 g
Fat	32 g
Saturated Fat	18 g
Cholesterol	105 mg
Sodium	890 mg
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	4 g
Calcium	35% DV
Iron	12% DV

Nutrition values are approximate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use imitation crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab works well for a more affordable option, though fresh crab has the best flavor.

Can I freeze crab pasta bake?
Yes! Freeze after assembling (before baking) for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the bake time.

What pasta works best for crab pasta bake?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or shells hold the sauce perfectly.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely — just cover and refrigerate assembled bake until ready to cook.

More Comfort Food Favorites

• Creamy Lobster Mac and Cheese
• Easy Baked Ziti
• Cheesy Shrimp Alfredo Bake
• Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie

Conclusion: A Baked Pasta Masterpiece

Crab Pasta Bake is one of those dishes that’s indulgent without being overwhelming — a delicious balance of rich, creamy, cheesy pasta and sweet, tender crab.
Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night at home, it’s pure comfort in every bite.

Try it once, and it will surely become a family favorite.

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