Hot Coastal Mac & Cheese

Hot Coastal Mac & Cheese Hot Coastal Mac & Cheese

COASTAL COMFORT, INDULGENCE REDEFINED.

Transform a classic comfort food into a five-star dining event with a decadent, golden-baked pasta centerpiece. This isn't just macaroni and cheese—it’s a precision-crafted culinary highlight designed to showcase sweet lump seafood with the rich, creamy notes of sharp cheddar and the peppery warmth of classic coastal seasonings.

Prep Time: 20 Min
Cook Time: 25 Min
Total Time: 45 Min
Servings/Yield: 6–8 Servings

What You Will Need

8 oz Yancey's Fancy Chesapeake Bay Cheddar, freshly grated (divided)
1 lb cavatappi or elbow macaroni
1 lb lump crab meat or shrimp (drained and picked for shells)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (tossed with 1 tbsp melted butter)
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

What To Do

1. Boil & Prep: Heat your oven to 375°F. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until 2 minutes short of al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Build Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in warmed milk, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Simmer until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Melt & Fold: Remove sauce from heat and stir in roughly three-quarters of your grated Chesapeake cheddar until silky smooth. Gently fold in pasta and lump seafood, taking care not to break up large crab lumps.
4. Bake & Serve: Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese and buttered panko. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

1. The Pasta Check: Undercook your pasta by 2 minutes before baking so it absorbs the rich cheddar sauce without turning soft or watery.
2. The Wine Sip: Cut through the rich cheddar cream by pairing this dish with a crisp, high-acidity white wine like an un-oaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
3. The Brew Pair: Balance the rich seafood and seasonings beautifully with a classic American Pilsner or a crisp Amber Ale.
4. The Final Touch: Bake until golden brown and bubbly, then top with fresh chopped parsley before sharing your masterpiece on social!