Crab Fettuccine Alfredo

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Experience the perfect blend of creamy Alfredo sauce and succulent lump crab meat with this Crab Fettuccine Alfredo recipe. This elegant seafood pasta dish is easy to prepare, packed with rich flavors, and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a luxurious weeknight dinner. Combining classic Italian ingredients with fresh seafood, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly coats tender fettuccine noodles.

• High-protein seafood with fresh lump crab meat adds a luxurious touch.

• Quick and straightforward, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

• Uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens for a gourmet meal without fuss.

Ingredients Breakdown

Pasta Base:

• Fettuccine Pasta (8 oz): Classic wide noodles perfect for catching creamy Alfredo sauce.

Seafood:

• Lump Crab Meat (1 lb): The star of the dish—adds delicate, sweet flavor and elegant texture.

Sauce:

• Butter (¼ cup): Provides a rich, silky base for the sauce.

• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth.

• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a luscious, thick sauce.

• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Melts into the cream for that signature Alfredo richness.

Seasoning & Garnish:

• Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors.

• Fresh Parsley: Brightens and freshens the final dish.

Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor. Avoid canned or imitation crab.

• Don’t overheat the crab meat to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

• For a thicker sauce, simmer the cream and cheese longer before adding crab.

• Grate Parmesan fresh for smoother melting and richer taste.

• Add a squeeze of lemon for subtle acidity that brightens the dish.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.

• Vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted mushrooms.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute fettuccine with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter.

Pairing Suggestions

• Salad: Serve alongside a crisp mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette.

• Bread: Warm garlic bread or a crunchy baguette complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Side Dish: Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli adds a fresh, healthy balance.

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat; add a splash of cream or milk if sauce thickens too much.

• Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate and affect texture.

Popular Questions

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, but fresh lump crab meat is preferred for superior taste and texture.

What pasta can I substitute for fettuccine?

Linguine, tagliatelle, or penne work well as alternatives.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Crab Fettuccine Alfredo

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Crab Fettuccine Alfredo – Indulgent, creamy pasta loaded with lump crab in a garlicky Parmesan sauce. Ready in 30 mins—fancy but easy

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta

• 1 lb lump crab meat

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup butter

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water.

• Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

• Drain well and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic in Butter

• Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

• Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

• Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.

• Bring to a gentle simmer, then add grated Parmesan cheese.

• Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.

4. Add Crab Meat

• Gently fold in the lump crab meat, heating for 2-3 minutes without breaking it up.

5. Season and Combine

• Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

• Add the cooked fettuccine to the saucepan and toss until the noodles are evenly coated.

6. Serve

• Plate the pasta immediately.

• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

This Crab Fettuccine Alfredo recipe offers a delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinners with minimal effort. The combination of creamy sauce and fresh crab meat creates a luxurious seafood pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it for a special occasion or whenever you want to indulge in rich, comforting flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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