Ayesha Curry’s Crab Mac and Cheese

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.

2. Step 2

   Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking, until the mixture is lightly browned and has a toasty aroma, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the half-and-half, increase the heat to medium-high, and continue to cook, whisking, until the mixture bubbles and thickens. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Asiago, Parmesan, chili sauce, white pepper and 1 teaspoon salt; continue to cook, stirring, until smooth.

3. Step 3

   Heat the broiler and arrange an oven rack 4 inches from the heat source. Pour the sauce over the pasta in the bowl, then stir in the crabmeat and scallions. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, then transfer to a 9-inch-square baking dish or other 2 ½-quart baking dish. (If you’d like to prep ahead, you can cover the baking dish and refrigerate up to 1 day. Set out at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake at 350 degrees until warmed before broiling.)

4. Step 4

   Transfer the dish to the oven and broil until the top is golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Serve hot.