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–+ servings
Crab Pasta

Irresistible Crab Pasta: Creamy Cajun Comfort Awaits

Experience the explosion of flavors in this Crab Pasta, blending creamy sauce and Cajun spices for a delightful dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Fettuccine or Linguine Substitute spaghetti or penne for a lighter option.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds richness to sautéed vegetables.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Prevents butter from burning.
  • 1 cup Onion Chopped yellow or white onions work best.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Substitute with green bell pepper for more bite.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced fresh garlic enhances depth of flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust according to your taste.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Optional but highly recommended for flavor.
  • 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional, adjust for heat preference.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream You can substitute with half-and-half.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used as an alternative.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated, consider dairy-free options if needed.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the flavors.
  • ¼ cup Chopped Parsley Garnish that enhances both flavor and visual appeal.
For the Crab
  • 1 lb Lump Crab Meat Pick over for shells, use fresh or high-quality meat.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper, sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow sauce to thicken for 5-7 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
  4. Add the Crab: Gently fold in lump crab meat into the sauce, warm for about 2-3 minutes without overcooking.
  5. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Transfer cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Serve: Spoon Cajun Crab Pasta into bowls, garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always use fresh ingredients where possible, especially garlic and crab meat, to elevate the flavors.

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