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Cajun Crab Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 130 reviews

This creamy Cajun Crab Pasta is a delicious blend of tender lump crab meat tossed in a rich, spicy sauce made with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Paired with fettuccine and a luscious combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and fresh lemon juice, it offers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and seafood flavor — ideal for a comforting yet elegant dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz fettuccine or linguine (or pasta of your choice)

For the Sauce and Crab:

  • 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water for later if needed.
  2. Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
  3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Let the sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add the Crab Meat: Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Allow the crab to warm through in the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, paired with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Be gentle when folding in the crab meat to keep the lumps intact.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for your preferred heat level.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread.

Keywords: Cajun crab pasta, creamy crab pasta, Cajun seasoning seafood pasta, spicy crab pasta, seafood pasta recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/cajun-crab-pasta-recipe/