Description
Looking for a comforting yet bold dinner packed with flavor? This Creamy Cajun Crab Pasta is just what you need. Tender crab meat, rich Cajun spices, and a velvety cream sauce come together with your favorite pasta to create a dish that’s luxurious, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests with minimal effort.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine or linguine
Salt, for boiling water
For the Cajun Cream Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp black pepper
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Crab:
8 oz lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
1 tbsp butter (optional, for reheating the crab gently)
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (for flavor boost)
For Garnish & Serving:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra grated Parmesan
Lemon wedges
Crusty bread or garlic toast
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
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In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
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Add garlic and shallot, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
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Add Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Stir and simmer for 4–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Crab
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If your crab is chilled, warm it in a small pan with 1 tbsp butter and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning for 2–3 minutes.
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Gently fold to keep crab lumps intact.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
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Squeeze in lemon juice and stir to brighten the flavors.
Step 5: Add the Crab
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Gently fold the warmed crab meat into the pasta.
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Heat for 1–2 minutes more, just until everything is warmed through.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
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Serve the pasta hot, topped with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
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Add lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.
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Pair with garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Use Lump Crab Meat – It’s sweet, tender, and perfect for pasta
Don’t Overcook the Crab – Just warm it through to preserve its delicate texture
Adjust Cajun Seasoning – Start with less, then add more to taste
Use Fresh Parmesan – For the best flavor and a smooth sauce
Reserve Pasta Water – Helps emulsify and thicken the sauce if needed
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Cajun