Description
This Cajun Crab Pasta is a creamy, slightly spicy seafood pasta that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor! It combines fresh crab meat, a touch of Cajun heat, and a creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine (or pasta of your choice)
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
For the sauce and crab:
- 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2️⃣ Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, letting the sauce thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Add the Crab Meat:
Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Allow the crab to heat through in the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
5️⃣ Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Cajun crab sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
6️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
Notes
- Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat works best, but you can use canned or frozen if fresh is unavailable.
- Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference; start with a smaller amount if you’re sensitive to spice.
- Creamy Texture: If the sauce is too thick, the reserved pasta water helps loosen it without compromising flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4