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Cajun Crab Pasta

Cajun Crab Pasta: Creamy, Zesty Delight in Every Bite

Cajun Crab Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy sauce with tender crab, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Fettuccine or Linguine Spaghetti or penne can also work as a substitute.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds rich, buttery flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Helps prevent butter from burning.
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
  • 1 each Red Bell Pepper, finely chopped Enhances sweetness and adds color.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Brings fragrant depth of flavor.
  • 1.5 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust to taste for preferred spice level.
  • 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika Infuses depth and smoky flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional, adds extra kick.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates velvety texture.
  • 0.5 cup Chicken Broth Balances creaminess with flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Thickens the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Crab
  • 1 lb Lump Crab Meat The key protein.
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Parsley, chopped Adds a fresh touch for presentation.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine or linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and red bell pepper, sauté for 3-4 minutes. Incorporate garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and optional crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes, then add Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Gently fold in lump crab meat and heat for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce is bubbling lightly.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If too thick, stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency.
  6. Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust spice levels according to preference and experiment with pasta types for variety.

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