Step 1

Cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions for al dente. Drain.

Step 2

Meanwhile, toss together cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmigiano-Reggiano until well combined; set aside 1 cup cheese mixture. Preheat broiler to low with oven rack in top third of oven.

Step 3

Bring cream just to a boil in a large saucepan over medium-high. Reduce heat to low; add garlic, and gently simmer, stirring often, 2 minutes. Stir in cooked pasta, and return to a gentle simmer over medium. Cook, stirring often, 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in cheese mixture in three additions (about 1 1/2 cups at a time), until cheese is melted after each addition. Gently stir in crab and 1/4 cup chives. Season to taste with salt.

Step 4

Spoon pasta mixture into an 8- x 6- x 2-inch broiler-proof baking dish set on a rimmed baking sheet. Top with reserved 1 cup cheese mixture in an even layer.

Step 5

Broil in preheated oven until cheese is golden brown and crusty, 5 to 7 minutes, rotating as needed for even browning. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes, and sprinkle with remaining 1 tablespoon chives.