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Cajun Crab Pasta

Cajun Crab Pasta: A Creamy Delight for Seafood Lovers

Cajun Crab Pasta is a creamy and flavorful seafood dish that combines tender crab meat with a rich sauce, making it a perfect dinner choice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun, Seafood
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine Choose wide strands for better sauce adhesion.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds a rich depth to the creamy sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Prevents butter from burning while cooking the aromatics.
  • 1 medium onion Finely chopped for sweetness and savory depth.
  • 1 medium red bell pepper Adds color and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced for an aromatic foundation in the sauce.
  • 1.5 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste for your preferred spice level.
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika Enhances flavor and imparts a smoky undertone.
  • 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional for extra heat if desired.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Creates a creamy and luxurious sauce.
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth For a lighter sauce with added flavor depth.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese Grated for savoriness and thickening.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice To brighten and balance the rich flavors.
  • salt and pepper To taste, essential for enhancing overall flavor.
For the Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley Chopped for a vibrant and fresh touch.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add fettuccine or linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 3-5 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice, mixing well. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
  4. Gently fold in the picked-over lump crab meat, warming it through for 2-3 minutes over low heat. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.
  5. Add the drained fettuccine or linguine directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to ensure it's well coated with the sauce.
  6. Plate the Cajun Crab Pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, optionally alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Choose quality crab for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the sauce to prevent separation.

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