Crab Mac Cheese Shells of Glory Recipe Comfort Food Bliss

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454g) cavatappi pasta (or shells, elbow macaroni)
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (710ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 12 ounces (340g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 3 cups)
• 4 ounces (113g) Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound (454g) lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter